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Article published In: Australian Review of Applied Linguistics
Vol. 28:2 (2005) ► pp.1–14

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Indigenous languages of southeast Australia, revitalization and the role of education

 | University of Sydney
Published online: 1 January 2005
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https://doi.org/10.1075/aral.28.2.01wal
Abstract
The Indigenous languages of southeast Australia have often been written off as a hopeless cause in current debates about language revitalization. In this paper we question this pessimism and report on some of the progress that has been made in recent years. It will be shown that revitalization is not only possible but contributes to the strength of identity of Indigenous people and to a heightened awareness for other Australians. We consider the role of education in this process and conclude with some thoughts on the appropriate contribution of the academy.
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