Mr Colless said the preschool would receive the money to deliver the much needed program which is designed to increase the levels of Aboriginal languages being taught and embed awareness and understanding for children from an early age.

“The $400,000 program will support young children including those in Forbes to appreciate and understand Aboriginal languages while participating in early learning environments,” he said.

“The local community will also benefit immensely, with stronger relationships forged between early childhood services and their local Aboriginal communities,” Mr Colless said.

Director of the Forbes Kindergarten Preschool, Amy Shine said the funding will go a long way towards linking Indigenous children with their heritage and culture.

“This is such a great program and we’re excited to deliver this in our community. It’s so important for these young kids to understand their culture and history. It’s through developing their language skills that we will be able to do this,” she said.

Ms Shine said the funding gives the preschool an opportunity to expand and support the current Wiradjuri language classes.

Ms Shine said the funding will be used to engage with community groups to help draft and run the program.

Minister for Early Childhood Education and Minister for Aboriginal Affairs Sarah Mitchell said agencies and services running the program will soon be teaching 14 languages across the state including Wiradjuri, Gamilaraay, Yuin and Bandjalang.

“In addition to increasing the literacy and vocabulary skills of Aboriginal children in NSW, Ninganah No More will help young people preserve some of their heritage and traditions and develop as bilingual speakers,” she said.

“By opening the door on children’s curiosity, we are supporting them to learn more about Aboriginal cultures and languages,” Ms Mitchell said.

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