Key factors in the renewal of Aboriginal languages in New South Wales

Abstract

The chapter reviews a number of language rebuilding (LRB) efforts underway in New South Wales . We point out the importance of language work and its potential for improving the lives of indigenous Australians. Differences between rebuilt languages (RBLs) and other second languages are then considered. By definition, RBLs will initially have no fluent speakers and need to be rebuilt from historical materials and whatever knowledge is retained. Major research is the first step in rebuilding, followed by development of simple forms of the language while people master its linguistic nuances and relearn and also create advanced forms. RBLs are inevitably hybrid, incorporating features of the first language of the rebuilders. The more the rebuilding is done on the basis of good analysis the less hybridisation occurs. In situations such as New South Wales RBLs have a tendency to diversify.