IBN Languages
ABOUT THE PROGRAM
Language is more than words - it carries identity, history, and connection. It is one of the strongest ways that culture is passed from one generation to the next.
The IBN Language program has been created to support the preservation, learning, and sharing of IBN languages. The goal is to strengthen cultural continuity by connecting people, including Members and the wider community, with Aboriginal languages in meaningful and accessible ways.
Purpose
At its heart, the program exists to ensure IBN languages remain living languages. This means supporting not only documentation and presentation, but also encouraging every day use, shared learning, and intergenerational teaching.
The program is guided by a long-term vision: to build strong foundations now that support future Aboriginal language education pathways and cultural resilience.
Cultural Connection
Through collaboration with Elders, Members, and specialist linguists, the IBN Language Program supports the ongoing use and understanding of IBN Languages while contributing to cultural preservation.
The IBN Language Program helps people to engage with Aboriginal language in a meaningful and accessible way.
WORD OF THE WEEK
A key feature of the IBN Language Program is the Word of the Week series. Through short, engaging videos, simple words are introduced alongside guided pronunciation.
As Aboriginal languages are traditionally oral and can vary in spelling, the Banyjima Word of the Week series is guided by the knowledge of Milyuranpa Banyjima Elder and IBN Member, May Byrne, who also sits on the IBN Language Governance Group. For consistency, May’s spelling of Banyjima words has been adopted.
Each video features May sharing language knowledge first hand and demonstrating pronunciation, to support learning, familiarity, and cultural understanding.
Discover the stories, sounds, and knowledge carried through Aboriginal language and follow the Word of the Week series as we build lasting cultural connections for generations to come.
BANYJIMA WORDS OF THE WEEK
Build and practice your Banyjima vocabulary by expanding each category below.
