The Nyiyaparli Living Language Project (NLLP) is an initiative powered by Karlka Nyiyaparli Aboriginal Corporation (KNAC) aimed at preserving, documenting, digitising, promoting, and revitalising the critically endangered Nyiyaparli language.
With fewer than ten fluent language speakers remaining, KNAC recognises that with the increasing age of many senior speakers, there is a critical urgency to capture their knowledge and protect the language for future generations.
The NLLP is vital for maintaining the cultural heritage of the Nyiyaparli people, who have inhabited their land for over 41,000 years, marking the second oldest confirmed occupation in Australia.
The project emphasises the importance of the Nyiyaparli language in maintaining the health of their cultural heritage and addresses the urgent need to ensure the language’s survival for future generations.
The project collaborates with senior people and senior language-speaking members of the Nyiyaparli community to ensure the Nyiyaparli language remains protected and alive forever.
The NLLP involves the collation and creation of language resources, digital tools, and efforts to promote Nyiyaparli language within the community.
Promoting the importance of Nyiyaparli cultural heritage is at the core of KNAC’s mission, and the NLLP will ensure that future generations continue to speak and engage with their language, connecting them to their rich history and culture.
In addition to ongoing work with senior Nyiyaparli and collaborating with groups like the Nyiyaparli Rangers, the NLLP will feature public displays and digital components, including posters and language materials showcased throughout community centres, shopping centres and public spaces in Newman.
These efforts will directly contribute to the revitalisation and awareness of Nyiyaparli, ensuring it remains a living, thriving language for generations to come.
A dedicated NLLP website is currently under construction however in the meantime you can sign up to receive project updates at www.nyiyaparli.live!
