First Nations Languages Workshop

A group of participants in the languages workshops at Queensland State Archives

Join us for a four-day workshop to explore and revitalise First Nations languages in Queensland.

The First Nations Languages Workshop supports Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander communities and language workers to explore, strengthen and preserve traditional languages.

Applications close at 5pm on Sunday 29 March 2026.

About the workshop

Workshop participants will:

  • learn the basics of how to research language in archival collections
  • explore Queensland’s archival collection to find connections between language, culture, Country and family
  • gain tools and knowledge to help with your language work in your community.

The workshop will be led by Des Crump, a Gamilaroi man and expert language researcher, with support from QSA’s First Nations Strategy team.

Workshop details

  • When: 9am Tuesday 19 May to 2pm Friday 22 May 2026
  • Where: Queensland State Archives, 435 Compton Rd, Runcorn (Yuggera Country)
  • Meals: We provide morning tea, lunch and afternoon tea on workshop days. You will need to organise your own breakfasts and dinners.

Pre-workshop yarn

We will have an informal meet and greet the night before the workshop. This is a chance to meet other people doing the workshop.

  • When: Monday 18 May 2026 (evening)
  • Where: Location to be confirmed

Regional attendees

We encourage people from regional communities to apply to attend this workshop.  If you’re coming from a regional area, we recommend arriving on Monday 18 May 2026 so you can:

  • join the pre-workshop yarn
  • be ready for the workshop to start on Tuesday morning.

Financial assistance is available to help with travel and accommodation costs.

Cultural sensitivity and archival records

We understand the importance of archival records to Aboriginal peoples and Torres Strait Islander peoples. Some records may include names, images or voices of people who have passed away, as well as language and content from the time they were created. This might include material that could be distressing.

How to apply

Aboriginal peoples and Torres Strait Islander peoples who are actively involved in language revival programs or working with traditional languages in Queensland communities are invited to apply.
Places are limited. Your application will be assessed, and we will contact you if your application has been selected.

Submit your application online by 5pm on Sunday 29 March 2026.

Apply to attend workshop

Unable to apply online?

If you are unable to submit the online application form:

How we will assess your application

We will look at the following:

  • Your current involvement in language revival activities
    • Tell us about your interest in languages—researching, learning, teaching, etc.
    • Share how you are involved in language activities within the community, like art, storytelling or teaching.
    • Highlight any programs, activities, resources or research work you have worked on.
  • What you plan to do after the workshop
    • Explain how you will use your language research from the workshop.
    • Tell us how you will share your research with your community.
    • Describe how your research will be used to create new knowledge or language resources.
  • Supporting documents
    • Include a letter of support from a local organisation, such as a community organisation, language centre or school. Download an example letter of support (DOC, 17KB).
    • Share examples of your language work, such as community activities, resources or word lists.

We welcome applications in all formats including video or interviews.

Need help?

If you require support completing your application, contact our First Nations Strategy team.