STATEMENTS BY SENATORS

Senator THORPE (Victoria—Independent VIC Whip) (13:54): Senator Thorpe. This speech has been written by Alarah, aged 12. Alarah says: Walawaani yanz ngai narri Alarah Dhurga Yuin.

You've probably never heard that sentence before. It means: Hello everybody, my name is Alarah and I am from the Yuin tribe. If you've never heard that language before, there's a good chance you've never heard of my tribe either.

And that's the problem. Before colonisation, over 250 Indigenous languages were spoken across this continent. Today, only around 60 remain.

And if we do nothing, more languages and traditions could disappear forever. Schools are meant to prepare students for the future, but culture is part of that future too. Culture is not just history it's identity, belonging, language, and connection.

It's who we are. This issue matters to me personally because I grew up without being able to fully learn about my own culture. I had to search for answers myself, and I'm not the only one.

Nearly 79% of First Nations children do not have access to Indigenous language programs at school. But this can change. Schools could introduce Indigenous language classes, cultural clubs, and stronger connections with First Nations communities.

This would help non-Indigenous students build understanding, respect, and a deeper connection to this country's history, while helping Indigenous students feel proud of who they are, more connected to their identity, and empowered to keep their cultures and languages alive for future generations. When we protect Indigenous culture, we are not only protecting the past, we are strengthening this country's future.