17,690,000 (1995). 170,000 or about 1% of the population is of Aboriginal descent, of whom 47,000 have some knowledge of an Aboriginal language. Commonwealth of Australia. Literacy rate 99%. Includes Cocos Islands (569 in 1981), Christmas Island (3,000 in 1983), and Norfolk Island (1,800 in 1985). Also includes Western Cham, Dutch 47,955, Western Farsi 11,000, Scots Gaelic, Greek, Western Hmong, Italian, Japanese 12,000, Kurmanji 11,000, Polish 13,782, Rumanian, Serbo-Croatian 38,73, Turkish 40,000, Northern Uzbek, Uyghur, Vietnamese 35,000, Arabic 250,000, Chinese 19,000, Malay and Indonesian 35,000, many other languages of Europe Information mainly from SIL 1991, 1995, Wurm and Hattori 1981, Black 1983, Oates 1970, 1975. Data accuracy estimate: A2, B. Also includes Western Cham, Dutch 47,955, Western Farsi 11,000, Scots Gaelic, Greek, Western Hmong, Italian, Japanese 12,000, Kurmanji 11,000, Polish 13,782, Rumanian, Serbo-Croatian 38,753, Turkish 40,000, Northern Uzbek, Uyghur, Vietnamese 35,000, Malay and Indonesian 35,000, Arabic 250,000, Chinese 190,000, many other languages of Europe. Christian, secular, Muslim. Blind population 28,000. Deaf population 9,000 to 9,500 (1986 Gallaudet University). Deaf institutions: 116. The number of languages listed for Australia is 267. Of those, 234 are living languages, 2 are second languages without mother tongue speakers, and 31 are extinct.
ADYNYAMATHANHA (WAILPI, WAILBI, WALJBI, WIPIE, AD'N'AMADANA, ANJIMATANA, ANJIWATANA, ARCHUALDA, BENBAKANJAMATA, BINBARNJA, GADJNJAMADA, JANDALI, KANJIMATA, KEYDNJMARDA, MARDALA, NIMALDA, NURALDA, UNYAMOOTHA, UMBERTANA) [ADT] 20 or more (1990 Schmidt). Flinders Ranges area, South Australia. Australian, Pama-Nyungan, South-West, Yura. Related to Guyani, Banggarla, Nugunu, and Narungga, which may be extinct. Speakers are bilingual in English.
AGHU THARNGGALU [GGR] Queensland, Cape York Peninsula, Laura. Australian, Pama-Nyungan, Paman, Rarmul Pama. Recently extinct.
AGWAMIN [AWG] Queensland, south central Cape York Peninsula, Einasleigh River. Australian, Pama-Nyungan, Paman, Southern Pama. Ruhlen (1987) says this is extinct.
ALAWA (KALLANA, LEEALOWA) [ALH] 17 to 20 fluent and 4 partial first language speakers (1991 M. Sharpe). Roper River, Arnhem Land, Northern Territory. Australian, Maran, Alawic. All speakers are bilingual in Kriol. Young people only understand a little Alawa, and speak Kriol. Nearly extinct.
ALNGITH [AID] 3 (?) (1981 Wurm and Hattori). Queensland, northeast Cape York Peninsula just north of Weipa. Australian, Pama-Nyungan, Paman, Northern Pama. Nearly extinct.
ALYAWARR (ALYAWARRA, ALYAWARRE, ALJAWARA, ILIAURA, YOWERA) [ALY] 1,500 or more (1991 Hoogenrad). Sandover and Tennant Creek areas, Northern Territory and Queensland. Australian, Pama-Nyungan, Arandic, Urtwa. Speakers are somewhat bilingual in English. Related to Arrernte, Arrernte Akerre, Anmatyerre, and Kaytetye. 40% literate in English. Dictionary. Grammar. Bible portions 1996. Work in progress.
AMARAG (WUREIDBUG, AMURAG) [AMG] A few speakers. Goulburn Island, Oenpelli, Northern Territory. Australian, Yiwaidjan, Amaragic. A few elderly people use it as second language. May be extinct (Black 1983). Nearly extinct.
AMI (AME, AMIJANGAL) [AMY] 30 to 35 fluent speakers (1983 Black). Northern Territory, Coast along Anson Bay, southwest of Darwin. Australian, Daly, Bringen-Wagaydy, Wagaydy. May be intelligible with Wadjiginy. Speakers use Kriol as second language.
ANDEGEREBINHA [ADG] 10 (?) (1981 Wurm and Hattori). Northern Territory, Hay River, Pituri Creek area, east of Alyawarra. Australian, Pama-Nyungan, Arandic, Urtwa. Nearly extinct.
ANGLOROMANI (ROMANICHAL, ENGLISH ROMANI, POGADI CHIB) [RME] 5,000 in Australia; 100,000 or fewer in USA; 145,000 in all countries. Also in United Kingdom and North America. Indo-European, Germanic, West, North Sea, English. A variety of English with heavy Romani lexical borrowing. A Gypsy language. Work in progress.
ANINDILYAKWA (ANDILJANGWA, ANDILYAUGWA, ENINDILJAUGWA, INGURA, WANINDILYAUGWA, GROOTE EYLANDT, ENINDHILYAGWA) [AOI] 1,000 or more (1983 Black). Groote Eylandt, Northern Territory, Gulf of Carpenteria. Australian, Enindhilyagwa. Most young people are bilingual in English. Typology: SOV. Scrub forest. Coastal, island. Hunter-gatherers traditionally. Altitude: 0 to 200 meters. Bible portions 1976-1993. Work in progress.
ANMATYERRE (ANMATJIRRA) [AMX] 800 (1983 Black). Northern Territory, Mt. Allen, Northwest Alice Springs Region. Australian, Pama-Nyungan, Arandic, Urtwa. Dialects: EASTERN ANMATYERRE, WESTERN ANMATYERRE (KALENTHELKWE, KELENTHWELKERE, KELENTHEYEWELRERE). Dictionary. Survey needed.
ANTAKARINYA (ANDAGARINYA) [ANT] 50 possibly (1981 Wurm and Hattori); few (1983 Black). Northeast area of South Australia. Australian, Pama-Nyungan, South-West, Wati. Closest to Warnman and Western Desert Language. People generally speak Kriol.
ARABANA [ARD] 8 possibly (1981 Wurm and Hattori). Birdsville, west side of Lake Eyre to Stuart Range, South Australia. Australian, Pama-Nyungan, Karnic, Arabana-Wangganguru. Nearly extinct.
AREBA [AEA] 2 (?) (1981 Wurm and Hattori). Queensland, southwestern Cape York Peninsula, Bilbert River, northeast of Normanton. Australian, Pama-Nyungan, Paman, Norman Pama. Nearly extinct.
ARRARNTA, WESTERN (ARANDA, ARUNTA) [ARE] 1,000 (1981 Wurm and Hattori). Northern Territory, Alice Springs area, Hermannsburg. Australian, Pama-Nyungan, Arandic, Urtwa. Dialects: WESTERN ARANDA, AKERRE (AKARA), SOUTHERN ARANDA. Closely related to Alyawarra and Gaididj. Investigation of dialect intelligibility is needed, especially of Akerre; also of Andegerebinha, Anmatjirra, Yuruwinga (Yaruwinga). Wurm and Hattori (1981) and Ruhlen (1987) treat Western Arrartna and Eastern Arrernte as separate languages. Southern Aranda is nearly extinct. Typology: SOV. Savannah. Plains. Hunter-gatherers. NT 1956. Bible portions 1925-1928. Work in progress.
ARRERNTE, EASTERN (EASTERN ARANDA, ARUNTA) [AER] 1,500 to 2,000 (1995 Neil Broad). Northern Territory, Alice Springs area, Santa Teresa, Hats Range. Australian, Pama-Nyungan, Arandic, Urtwa. Related to Mparntwe Arrernte, Alyawarr, Arrernte Akarre, Anmatyerre, Kaytetye, Western Arrarnta. Bilingual program in operation at a school at Santa Teresa. 50% literate. Dictionary. Grammar. Typology: SOV. Savannah. Plains. Hunter-gatherers. Work in progress.
ATAMPAYA [AMZ] 4 (?) (1981 Wurm and Hattori). Queensland, extreme northern Cape York Peninsula, Eliot Creek. Australian, Pama-Nyungan, Paman, Northern Pama. Nearly extinct.
AUSTRALIAN ABORIGINES SIGN LANGUAGE [ASW] Southern, central, and western desert regions, coastal Arnhem Land, some islands of north coast, western side of Cape York Peninsula, islands of Torres Strait. Deaf sign language. Several different sign languages are used by deaf persons. Not related to Australian Sign Language. Also used by hearing Aborigines as an alternate form of communication with speakers of other languages. Other non-deaf sign languages are used by some groups, such as Aranda, Warlpiri, Warumungu, during periods of mourning or hunting. Survey needed.
AUSTRALIAN SIGN LANGUAGE (AUSLAN) [ASF] 14,000 users possibly (1991 Hyde and Power). Deaf sign language. Related to British Sign Language, with influences also from Irish and American sign languages. The earliest schools for the deaf were established by British deaf immigrants in 1860. Many agencies for the deaf. Many TV stations include sign language interpretation with programs. Some signed interpretation in court, for college students, at important public events. There is sign language instruction for parents of deaf children. There is a committee on national sign language. There is a manual system for spelling. Dictionary. Grammar. Films, videos. Work in progress.
AWABAKAL (AWABAGAL) [AWK] Lake Macquari, south from Newcastle, New South Wales. Australian, Pama-Nyungan, Yuin-Kuric, Kuri. Recently extinct. Bible portions 1891.
AYABADHU [AYD] 6 (?) (1981 Wurm and Hattori). Queensland, Cape York Peninsula, north of the Coleman River, south of Coen. Australian, Pama-Nyungan, Paman, Middle Pama. Nearly extinct.
BAADI (BARD, BARDI) [BCJ] 100 (1990 Schmidt). Beagle Bay, One Arm Point, and Dampier Land, Western Australia. Australian, Nyulnyulan. Children and adolescents appear to use English as their language. They can understand Bardi, but never seem to speak it. Adults are all bilingual in English. Related to Warwa, Djawi, Nimanbur, Nyulnyul, Dyaberdyaber, Dyugun, Yawuru, which may be extinct.
BANDJALANG (BANDJELANG, BOGGANGER, BUNDALA, GIDABAL, YUGUMBE) [BDY] 10 speakers (1983 R.M.W. Dixon). New South Wales, northeastern, Woodenbong. Australian, Pama-Nyungan, Bandjalangic. Dialects: GIDABAL (GIDHABAL), YUGUMBIR. All speakers are bilingual in English. Dictionary. Bible portions.
BANDJIGALI [BJD] 1 (?) (1981 Wurm and Hattori). New South Wales, northwest, north and west of White Cliffs. Australian, Pama-Nyungan, Baagandji. Nearly extinct.
BANGGARLA (BANGALA, BANGGALA, BAHANGA-LA, BUNGEHA, BUNGELA, PANGKALA, PAKARLA, PANKALLA, PARNKALA, PARNKALLA, PUNKALLA, KORTABINA) [BJB] South Australia, Port Lincoln to the head of Spencer Gulf. Australian, Pama-Nyungan, South-West, Yura. Ruhlen (1987) says it is extinct.
BARROW POINT [BPT] 1 (?) (1981 Wurm and Hattori). Queensland, Cape York Peninsula, Barrow Point on Princess Charlotte Bay and inland. Australian, Pama-Nyungan, Barrow Point. Nearly extinct.
BAYALI (BIYALI, DARAMBAL, ORAMBUL, CHARUMBUL, DARAWAL, DARUMBAL, KOOINMARBURRA, KUINMURBARA, NINGEBAL, TARUMBAL, THARUMBAL, URAMBAL, WARABAL, YETIMARALA) [BJY] Queensland, from the mouth of the Fitzroy River inland to Boomer Range at Marlborough, Yeppon, Yamba, and Rockhampton. Australian, Pama-Nyungan, Waka-Kabic, Kingkel. Extinct.
BAYUNGU (BAIONG, BAIUNG, BIONG, BAJUNGU, PAJUNGU, PAYUNGU, GIONG, MULGARNOO) [BXJ] 6 (1981 Wurm and Hattori). Western Australia, lower Lyndon and Minilya rivers, West Pilbara. Australian, Pama-Nyungan, South-West, Kanyara. Dictionary. Nearly extinct.
BIDYARA (BITJARA, BITHARA) [BYM] 20 (?) (1981 Wurm and Hattori). Queensland, between Tambo and Augathella, Warrego River and Langlo River. Australian, Pama-Nyungan, Maric, Mari. Speakers are reported to be bilingual in English. Ruhlen (1987) says it is extinct.
BILADABA [BXI] 1 (?) (1981 Wurm and Hattori). South Australia, around Lake Blanche and Lake Callabonna. Australian, Pama-Nyungan, Karnic, Karna. Nearly extinct.
BIRI [BZR] 5 (?) (1981 Wurm and Hattori). Queensland southeast of Charters Towers. Australian, Pama-Nyungan, Maric, Mari. Ruhlen (1987) says it is extinct. Nearly extinct.
BROOME PEARLING LUGGER PIDGIN (BROOM CREOLE, KOEPANG TALK, MALAY TALK, JAPANESE PIDGIN ENGLISH) [BPL] (40 to 50 speakers, mainly Aborigines). Broome, Lombardinie, Beagle Bay, La Grange, One Arm Point, Derby. Pidgin, Malay based. Some Japanese and Aboriginal creole English words. Used as a lingua franca on pearling boats to communicate between Malays, Japanese, Chinese, and Aborigines. Has Japanese and Aboriginal Pidgin English words. Second language only. No mother tongue speakers.
BUNABA (PUNAPA, BUNUBA) [BCK] 50 to 100 (1990 Schmidt). Fitzroy Crossing area, Western Australia. Australian, Bunaban. Only old people speak Bunaba. Children only know a few words; their first language is Kriol (Hudson 1987:16).
BURARRA (BURADA, BUREDA, BURERA, GUJINGALIA, GUJALABIYA, GUN-GURAGONE, BARERA, BAWERA, JIKAI, TCHIKAI) [BVR] 400 to 600 (1990 Schmidt). Maningrida, Arnhem Land, Northern Territory. Australian, Burarran. Gunardba is a related language which may be extinct. Typology: SOV. Scrub forest. Coastal. Hunter-gatherers. NT 1991. Bible portions 1972-1980.
BURDUNA (BUDUNA, BOORDOONA, BUDINA, BUDOONA, PURDUNA, PINNEEGOOROO, POODENA, POORDOONA, PURDUMA) [BXN] 3 (1981 Wurm and Hattori). Henry and upper Lyndon rivers. Australian, Pama-Nyungan, South-West, Kanyara. Nearly extinct.
DARLING (KULA, BAAGANDJI, SOUTHERN BAAGANDJI) [DRL] 5 or more fluent speakers, but Bagundji dialect is widely understood by others (1970 Oates). Darling River Basin, New South Wales. Australian, Pama-Nyungan, Baagandji. Dialects: KULA, WILJAKALI (WILYAGALI), BAGUNDJI (BAAGANDJI, BAGANDJI). Nearly extinct.
DAYI (DHAY'YI, DHA'I) [DAX] 200 (1983 Black). Arnhem Land, Roper River, Yirrkala, Lake Evella, Galiwinku, Numbulwam, Northern Territory. Australian, Pama-Nyungan, Yuulngu. Dialects: DHALWANGU, DJARRWARK. The clans are active, but the position of the language is weak because of scattering and children speaking other languages, such as Djambarrpuyngu. All or nearly all the people speak Dhuwal or English. Nearly extinct.
DHALANDJI (TALANDJI, DALANDJI, DALENDI, DJALENDI, TALLAINGA, TALANDI, TALAINDJI, TALANGEE, TALOINGA, THALANYJI) [DHL] 20 (1981 Wurm and Hattori). Western Australia, head of Exmouth Gulf, inland to Ashburton River, West Pilbara. Australian, Pama-Nyungan, South-West, Kanyara. Speakers are reported to be highly bilingual in English. Dictionary.
DHANGU (DANGU, DHANGU'MI, DJANGU) [GLA] 350 including 200 in Gaalpu, 150 in Wangurri (1983 Black). Elcho Island, Arnhem Land, Northern Territory. Australian, Pama-Nyungan, Yuulngu. Dialects: DHANGU-DJANGU, GAALPU (KALBU), WANGURRI, NGAYMIL, RIRRATJINGU, GOLUMALA. Speakers are bilingual in Djambarrpuyngu. Yolngu-Matha means 'people language'. Typology: SVO, SOV if O is a pronoun or deictic. Scrub forest. Coastal, insular. Hunter-gatherers, fishermen. Bible portions 1977.
DHARGARI (TARGARI, DAL'GARI, TARKARRI, THARGARI, THARRGARI) [DHR] 6 (1981 Wurm and Hattori). Western Australia, Kennedy Range, upper Minilya and lower Lyons rivers, West Pilbara. Australian, Pama-Nyungan, South-West, Kanyara. Ruhlen classifies it in a separate Mantharda group. Dictionary. Nearly extinct.
DHURGA (DHU'RGA, DURGA, THOORGA) [DHU] New South Wales, Bermagui to Jervis Bay. Australian, Pama-Nyungan, Yuin-Kuric, Yuin. Ruhlen (1987) says it is extinct.
DHUWAL (DUALA, DUAL, WULAMBA) [DUJ] 500 fluent first language speakers (1983 Black), including 200 Djapu, 160 Liyagalawumirr (clan names). Roper River, Arnhem Land, Northern Territory. Australian, Pama-Nyungan, Yuulngu, Dhuwal. Dialects: DHUWAYA, DHUWAL, LIYAGAWUMIRR, MARRANGU, MARRAKULU, DJAPU, LIYAGALAWUMIRR, DATIWUY. People are bilingual in Djambarrpuyngu.
DIERI (DIYARI) [DIF] South Australia, Leigh Creek. Australian, Pama-Nyungan, Karnic, Karna. Wurm and Hattori (1981) list as having 12 speakers. Related to Garuwali, Marrula, Midhaga, Yarluyandi, all of which may be extinct. NT 1897.
DIRARI [DIT] 1 (1981 Wurm and Hattori). South Australia, east of Lake Eyre North. Australian, Pama-Nyungan, Karnic, Karna. Nearly extinct.
DJAMBARRPUYNGU (DJAMBARBWINGU, JAMBAPUING, JAMBAPUINGO) [DJR] 450 fully fluent first language speakers (1983 Black); lingua franca for 2,000 (1990 UBS). Elcho Island, Northern Territory. Australian, Pama-Nyungan, Yuulngu, Dhuwal. Bible portions 1977-1993. Work in progress.
DJAMINDJUNG (JAMINJUNG) [DJD] 30 (1990 Schmidt). Victoria River, Northern Territory. Australian, Djamindjungan. Dialect: NGALIWURU (NGALIWERRA). Reports indicate that Djamindjung and Ngaliwuru are so close as to be one language; only some elderly people can distinguish the difference. People are bilingual in Ngarinman and Kriol.
DJANGUN (DJANGGUN, ADHO-ADHOM, BUTJU, CHUNGKI, CHUNKUMBERRIES, CHUNKUNBURRA, KOKO-MUDJU, MUTYU, NGAIGUNGO, KOKO-TYANKUN) [DJF] 1 (?) (1981 Wurm and Hattori). Queensland, from Mt. Mulligan south to Alma-den, east to Dimbula, west to Mungana. Australian, Pama-Nyungan, Yalandyic. Nearly extinct.
DJAUAN (JAWAN, ADOWEN, KUMERTUO, JAWONY) [DJN] 100 possibly (1983 Black). Bamyili settlement, Northern Territory, also Katherine. Australian, Gunwingguan, Djauanic. Speakers are bilingual in limited English, some in Ngalkbon, probably all in Kriol. They live in the center of the Kriol speaking area. All education is in Kriol and English. Djauan is used only rarely by people over 50.
DJAWI [DJW] 1 (?) (1981 Wurm and Hattori). Western Australia, islands from King Sound to Brunswick Bay. Australian, Nyulnyulan. Nearly extinct.
DJEEBBANA (NDJÉBBANA, GUNAVIDJI) [DJJ] 100 fluent speakers and 100 partial second language speakers (1991). West Arnhem Land, north coast around Maningrida. Australian, Burarran. Most speakers also speak Gunwinjku and another Burarran language. Not closely related to other languages. Gunavidji is the name of the people, Ndjéebana of the language. Distinct from Gunawitji, an alternate name for Gunwinggu. Survey needed.
DJINANG (JANDIJINUNG) [DJI] 250 or more (1982 B. Waters SIL). Ramingining, Goyder, and Blyth rivers, Arnhem Land, Northern Territory. Australian, Pama-Nyungan, Yuulngu. Dialects: DJADIWITJIBI, MILDJINGI, WULAKI, BALURBI, MURRUNGUN, MANYARRING. Speakers intermarry with the Djinba. There are varying degrees of bilingualism in Ganalbingu (Djinba dialect), Gupapuyngu, Djambarrpuyngu, Chuwal, or Dhuwala. There is limited use of English. Wulaki people are bilingual in Burarra. Scrub forest. Coastal, river plains. Hunter-gatherers (formerly). Bible portions 1985-1987.
DJINBA [DJB] 60 to 90 speakers (1989 Waters), including 70 Ganalbingu (1983 Black). Dabi is nearly extinct (1991 SIL). Ngangalala, Arnhem Land, Northern Territory, southeast adjoining Djinang area. Australian, Pama-Nyungan, Yuulngu. Dialects: GANALBINGU, DABI, MANDJALPINGU. Speakers intermarry with the Djinang. Some are bilingual in Djinang, others in Djambarrpuyngu. 60% lexical similarity with Djinang; not intelligible with it. Some Ritarungo use this as a second language. Scrub forest. River plains.
DJINGILI (JINGALI, TJINGILU, CHINGALEE, DJINGILA, LEE, CHUNGULOO, TCHINGALEE, JINGULU) [JIG] 20 or fewer fluent first language speakers (1983 Black). Newcastle Waters, Ash Burton Range area, Elliott, Northern Territory, Elsey Station. Australian, West Barkly, Jingalic. Speakers are bilingual in Kriol. Nearly extinct.
DJIWARLI (DJWARLI) [DJL] 1 (1981 Wurm and Hattori). Western Australia, northwest, north of Mount Augustus. Australian, Pama-Nyungan, South-West, Coastal Ngayarda. Ruhlen (1987) classifies it in a separate Mantharda group. Nearly extinct.
DYAABUGAY (DYABUGAY, TJAPUKAI, BULUM-BULUM, CHECK-CULL, CHEWLIE, DJABUGAI, HILEMAN, KODGOTTO, KIKONJUNKULU, KOKONYUNGALO, KOKO-TJUMBUNDJI, NGARLKAJIE, ORLOW, TJABAKAI-THANDJI, TJABOGAIJANJI, TJANKIR, TJANKUN, TJAPUNKANDJI, TJUNBUNDJI) [DYY] 3 (?) (1981 Wurm and Hattori). Queensland, Barron River from south of Mareeba to Kuranda, north to Port Douglas on a plateau. Australian, Pama-Nyungan, Yidinic. Dialects: NJAKALI (NYAKALI, NYAGALI), DYAABUGAY, GULAY. Dictionary. Nearly extinct.
DYABERDYABER (NYULNYUL) [DYB] 3 (?) (1981 Wurm and Hattori). Western Australia, coast south of Beagle Bay and inland. Australian, Nyulnyulan. Nearly extinct.
DYANGADI (DAINGGATI, BOORKUTTI, BURGADI, DANGADI, DANGATI, DANGGADI, DANGGETTI, GHANGATTY, TANGETTI, THANGATTI, THANGATTY) [DYN] 5 (?) (1981 Wurm and Hattori). New South Wales, Kempsey area, Armidale, Macleay River. Australian, Pama-Nyungan, Yuin-Kuric, Kuri. Ruhlen (1987) says it is extinct. Nearly extinct.
DYIRBAL (DJIRUBAL) [DBL] 40 to 50 (1983 R.M.W. Dixon). Northeast Queensland, Herberton south to headwaters of Herbert River, to Cashmere, at Ravenshoe, Millaa Millaa and Woodleigh, east to Tully Falls. Australian, Pama-Nyungan, Dyirbalic. There are about 30 speakers of related Yara languages: 3 Nawagi, 12 Keramai, 3 Gulngui, 1 Djiru, 6 Mamu, 5 Ngatjan. Nearly extinct.
DYUGUN (JUKUN) [DYD] 2 (?) (1981 Wurm and Hattori). Western Australia, coast around Broome and inland. Australian, Nyulnyulan. Nearly extinct.
ENGLISH [ENG] 15,682,000 in Australia (1987), 95% of population (1980 WA); 322,000,000 in all countries (1995 WA). Indo-European, Germanic, West, North Sea, English. Dialects: AUSTRALIAN STANDARD ENGLISH, ABORIGINAL ENGLISH, NEO-NYUNGAR (NOONGA, NOONGAR, NOOGAR). Minor regional dialect differences. Dictionary in Noongar. National language. Braille Bible. Bible 1382-1989. NT 1380-1993. Bible portions 1530-1993.
ERRE (ERE, ARI) [ERR] 1 (?) (1981 Wurm and Hattori). Northern Territory, Red Lily area west of Oenpelli; around East Alligator River, Mt. Howship. Australian, Mangerrian, Urninganggic. Nearly extinct.
FLINDERS ISLAND [FLN] 3 (?) (1981 Wurm and Hattori). Queensland, Cape York Peninsula, Flinders Island, Princess Charlotte Bay. Australian, Pama-Nyungan, Flinders Island. Nearly extinct.
GADJERAWANG (GADJERONG, KAJIRRAWUNG) [GDH] 3 (?) (1981 Wurm and Hattori). Western Australia and Northern Territory, north coast from Wyndham to mouth of Victoria River and inland. Australian, Djeragan, Miriwungic. Nearly extinct.
GAGADU (GAGUDJU, KAKDJUAN, KAKDJU, KAKADU, ABDEDAL, ABIDDUL, KAKAKTA) [GBU] 6 (1981 Wurm and Hattori). Northern Territory, Oenpelli. Australian, Gagudjuan. All are bilingual in another Aboriginal language. Nearly extinct.
GAIDIDJ (KAIDITJ, KAITITJ) [GBB] 200 (1983 Black). North of Alice Springs, Northern Territory. Australian, Pama-Nyungan, Arandic, Artuya. Related to Alyawarra. People generally speak Kriol.
GAMBERA (GAMBRE, GAMGRE, GUWAN, KAMBERA) [GMA] 6 (?) (1981 Wurm and Hattori). Western Australia, Admiralty Gulf, far northern Kimberleys area. Australian, Wororan, Wunambalic. Nearly extinct.
GANGGALIDA (GANGGALITA, JUGULA, JAKULA, YUKALA, YUKULTA, YUGULDA, YOKULA) [GCD] 5 possibly (1981 Wurm and Hattori). Near Bourketown, Queensland. Australian, Pama-Nyungan, Tangic. Only elderly speakers. Nearly extinct.
GANGULU [GNL] Queensland around Isaac River, west of Marlborough. Australian, Pama-Nyungan, Maric, Mari. Ruhlen (1987) says it is extinct.
GARAWA (KARAWA, LEEARRAWA) [GBC] 200 or more (1990 Schmidt). Borroloola, Northern Territory and Doomadgee, Queensland. Australian, Garawan. Dialect: WANJI (WAINYI, WAANYI). Speakers intermarry with the Yanyuwa. Bible portions 1983.
GAYARDILT (GAJADILT, GAJARDILD, GAYADILT, KAIADILT, KAYARDILD, MALUNUNDA) [GYD] 50 (?) (1981 Wurm and Hattori). Queensland, Bentinck Island, Gulf of Carpentaria. Australian, Pama-Nyungan, Tangic. Speakers are bilingual in English. Dictionary.
GIYUG [GIY] 2 (?) (1981 Wurm and Hattori). Peron Islands in Anson Bay, southwest of Darwin. Australian, Daly, Bringen-Wagaydy, Wagaydy. Nearly extinct.
GOONIYANDI (GUNIAN, KUNIAN, KUNIYAN, GUNIYAN, GUNIYN, KUNAN, GUNIANDI, KONEYANDI, KONEJANDI) [GNI] 100 (1990 Schmidt). Gogo, Fossil Downs, Louisa, and Margaret River stations, Western Australia. Australian, Bunaban. Related to Bunaba, possibly inherently intelligible. Peile says it is almost extinct. People generally speak Kriol.
GUGADJ [GGD] 1 (?) (1981 Wurm and Hattori). Queensland, north coast from west of Karumba inland on Norman River. Australian, Pama-Nyungan, Paman, Flinders Pama. Nearly extinct.
GUGU BADHUN [GDC] 2 (?) (1981 Wurm and Hattori). Queensland, west of Ingham and Abergowrie almost to Einasleigh. Australian, Pama-Nyungan, Maric, Mari. Nearly extinct.
GUGU WARRA (GUGUWARRA) [WRW] Queensland, Cape York Peninsula, west bank of Normanby River. Australian, Pama-Nyungan, Paman, Lamalamic. Ruhlen (1987) says it is extinct.
GUGUBERA (KUKUBERA, KOKO BERA, KOKO PERA, BERANG, PAPERYN) [KKP] 15 fluent speakers (1991 SIL), out of an ethnic group of 50 (1990 Schmidt). Around the mouth of Mission River, Mitchell River, Queensland. Australian, Pama-Nyungan, Paman, Coastal Pama. The remainder of the ethnic group speak Torres Strait Creole, and have poor understanding of English. Most can speak Kunjen as second language.
GUGUYIMIDJIR (KUKUYIMIDIR, KOKO IMUDJI, GUGU YIMIJIR, GUUGU YIMITHIRR) [KKY] 20 to 30 fluent speakers, 200 to 300 know and understand the language but prefer English (1991 Wayne Rosendale), 400 in the ethnic group (1990 Schmidt). Hopevale, Queensland. Australian, Pama-Nyungan, Yalandyic. Children understand Guguyimidjir, but speak only speak a little, and mainly speak Aboriginal English. Bible portions 1940.
GUMATJ (GOMADJ, GUMAIT, GUMAJ) [GNN] 300 or more fully fluent first language speakers (1983 Black). Yirrkala, Northern Territory. Australian, Pama-Nyungan, Yuulngu, Dhuwala. Dialect: MANGALILI. Many are bilingual in Gupapuyngu, some in English. Typology: SOV. Scrub forest. Coastal. Hunter-gatherers. NT 1985. Bible portions 1977-1979.
GUNGABULA [GNF] 2 (?) (1981 Wurm and Hattori). Queensland, around Injune. Australian, Pama-Nyungan, Maric, Mari. Nearly extinct.
GUNWINGGU (GUNAWITJI, MAYALI, KUNWINJKU) [GUP] 400 first language speakers (1983 Black); 900 including second language speakers (1983 Black; 1990 Schmidt). Oenpelli, Arnhem Land, Northern Territory, Maningrida, Croker Island. Australian, Gunwingguan, Gunwinggic. Dialects: GUMADIR, MURALIDBAN, GUNEI, GUNDJEIPME, NAIALI. Some Ngalkbun use this as a second language. Bible portions 1942-1993. Work in progress.
GUNYA [GYY] 3 (?) (1981 Wurm and Hattori). Queensland, around Wyandra. Australian, Pama-Nyungan, Maric, Mari. Nearly extinct.
GUPAPUYNGU (GOBABINGO, GUBABWINGU) [GUF] 450 fully fluent first language speakers, 950 including second language users (1983 Black); plus 500 in other Dhuwal dialects besides those listed. Milingimbi, Arnhem Land, Northern Territory, and Elcho Islands. Australian, Pama-Nyungan, Yuulngu, Dhuwala. Dialects: GUPAPUYNGU, MADARRPA, MANGGALILI, MUNYUKU, WUBULKARRA, WALANGU. About 45 related dialects. Close to Gumatj. Some speakers are bilingual in other Aboriginal languages. Children are learning Djambarrpuyngu. Typology: SOV, OVS. Scrub forest. Coastal. Hunter-gatherers. Altitude: 0 to 50 meters. Bible portions 1967.
GURAGONE (GURROGONE, GOROGONE, GUN-GURAGONE, GUNGOROGONE, GUNAGORAGONE, GUTJERTABIA) [GGE] 20 (1990 Schmidt). Arnhem Land, south of Maningrida, along the Mann River, northwest of the Rembarrnga language, east of the Gunwinygu language. Australian, Burarran. All speakers are bilingual in Burarra or Gunwingku.
GURDJAR (KURTJJAR) [GDJ] 30 possibly (1981 Wurm and Hattori). Northeastern side of Norman River, Normanton, western Queensland. Australian, Pama-Nyungan, Paman, Norman Pama. Gurdjar is in daily use by older people, but children prefer English. Speakers say it is similar to Kunggara. Nearly extinct.
GURENG GURENG [GNR] Queensland, southeast, around Abercorn. Australian, Pama-Nyungan, Waka-Kabic, Than. Ruhlen (1987) says it is extinct. Guweng may be a dialect. Related to Daribalang and Gabi, which may be extinct.
GURINJI (GURINDJI) [GUE] 250 fully fluent first language speakers, 400 including partial speakers (1983 Black). Victoria River and Wave Hill, Kalkaringi, Northern Territory. Australian, Pama-Nyungan, South-West, Ngumbin. Dialects: MALNGIN, WANYJIRRA (WANDJIRA). All are bilingual in Kriol. Bible portions 1981-1986.
GUWAMU [GWU] 1 (?) (1981 Wurm and Hattori). Queensland, between St. George, Moonie River, Surat, Maranoa River. Australian, Pama-Nyungan, Maric, Mari. Nearly extinct.
IWAIDJA (IWAIDJI, IBADJO, EIWAJA, JIWADJA, LIMBA, KARADJEE) [IBD] 180 (1983 SIL). Croker Island, Northern Territory. Australian, Yiwaidjan, Yiwaidjic. Speakers are bilingual in English.
JARNANGO (YAN-NHANGU, NANGU, YANANGU) [JAY] 40 possibly (1983 Black). Two of the most western Crocodile Islands, adjacent to Cape Stewart, Maningrida and Milingimbi, Northern Territory. Australian, Pama-Nyungan, Yuulngu. Dialects: GARMALANGGA, GURJINDI. People generally speak Djambarrpuyngu, Gupapuyngu, or Burarra. Nearly extinct.
JARU (DJARU, JAROO, TJARU) [DDJ] 250 (1981 Wurm and Hattori). Halls Creek, Ringers Soak, southeastern Kimberley region, Western Australia. Australian, Pama-Nyungan, South-West, Ngumbin. Dialects: NYININY, DJARU. Nyininy is inherently intelligible with Jaru (Black 1983). Children speak Kriol or Aboriginal English. Dictionary. Work in progress.
KALA LAGAW YA (KALA YAGAW YA, YAGAR YAGAR, MABUIAG, KALA LAGAU LANGGUS, LANGUS, KALA LAGAW) [MWP] 3,000 to 4,000 fluent speakers (1990 Schmidt). Western Torres Strait Islands, Queensland; including Mabuiag, Badu, Moa, Kubin, Saibai, Boigu, Dauan, Yam, Sue, Yorke, Coconut, Thursday, Bamaga Islands; Townsville. Australian, Pama-Nyungan, Kala Lagaw Ya. Dialect: KALAW KAWAW. Outside the language area those younger than 30 are likely to speak Torres Strait Creole. Typology: SOV. Tropical island; trade wind dry season, monsoon wet; moderate rainfall. Islands: volcanic, coral, river deposits. Hunters, fishermen, agriculturalists. Altitude: 0 to 400 meters. NT 1994. Bible portions 1884-1900.
KALARKO (MALPA, MALBA, GALAAGU, KALAKO, KALAKUL, KALAKU) [KBA] Fraser and Bremer ranges area, Western Australia. Australian, Pama-Nyungan, South-West, Mirning. Recently extinct.
KALKUTUNG (GALGADUUN, GALGADUNGU, KALKATUNGU, KALKADOON) [KTG] Mt. Isa area, Queensland. Australian, Pama-Nyungan, Galgadungic. All speak English. Recently extinct.
KAMILAROI (CAMILEROI, GAMILARAAY, GAMILAROI) [KLD] Barwon, Bundarra, Balonne Rivers, Liverpool Plains and upper Hunter River, central northern New South Wales. Australian, Pama-Nyungan, Wiradhuric. Recently extinct. Dictionary.
KAMU (GAMOR) [QKY] 2 (1967). Northern Territory, south of Darwin, east of Daly River. Australian, Daly, Malagmalag, Daly Proper. Possibly extinct. Nearly extinct.
KANJU (KANDJU, KAANTYU, GANDJU, GANDANJU, KAMDHUE, KANDYU, KANYU, KARNU, JABUDA, NEOGULADA, YALDIYE-HO) [KBE] 50 possibly (1981 Wurm and Hattori). Central Cape York, Queensland. Australian, Pama-Nyungan, Paman, Northeastern Pama. Nearly extinct.
KARADJERI (KARAJARRI, KARRAJARRA, GARADJIRI, GARADYARI, GURADJARA, GARD'ARE) [GBD] 12 speakers (1991 Geytenbeek SIL). Roebuck Bay to seventy miles inland, Broome, Western Australia, La Grange mission. Australian, Pama-Nyungan, South-West, Marngu. The children speak Aboriginal English. Nearly extinct.
KARIYARRA (KARIERA, KARRIARA, GARIERA) [VKA] Western Australia, south of Port Hedland. Australian, Pama-Nyungan, South-West, Coastal Ngayarda. No speakers left (1991). Some people know some vocabulary. Extinct.
KITJA (KIJA, GIDJA, KIDJA) [GIA] 100 or more (1983 Black). Near Hall's Creek and Turkey Creek, Western Australia. Australian, Djeragan, Kitjic. Nomadic. Closest to Miriwung. Related to Kuluwarrang (Guluwarin, Guluwarung). Kriol is Kitja children's mother tongue, and adults are bilingual in Kriol. Typology: SOV. Savannah. Hills. Hunter-gatherers. Altitude: 100 to 400 meters. Bible portions 1978.
KOKATA (GUGADA, KOKITTA, KOOCATHO, KOOGURDA, KOKATHA, KUGURDA, KUKATA, MADUTARA, MADUWONGA, WANGGAMADU, WONGAMARDU) [KTD] 3 possibly (1981 Wurm and Hattori). South Australia, Pimba, Mt. Eba, Coober Peby. Australian, Pama-Nyungan, South-West, Wati. People may adequately understand Pintupi or Pitjantjatjara. Nearly extinct.
KRIOL (ROPER-BAMYILI CREOLE) [ROP] 10,000 or more fluent first language speakers (1991 B. Borneman SIL); 20,000 or more including second language speakers (1991 SIL). Roper River, Katherine areas, Ngukurr, Northern Territory; Kimberley Region, Western Australia; Gulf Country, Lower Cape York Peninsula, Queensland. Creole, English based, Pacific. Dialects: ROPER RIVER KRIOL (ROPER RIVER PIDGIN), BAMYILI CREOLE, BARKLY KRIOL, FITZROY VALLEY KRIOL, DALY RIVER KRIOL. All are bilingual in English or various Aboriginal languages except perhaps preschool children. Typology: SVO. Savannah, scrub forest. Coastal, plains. Pastoralists, hunter-gatherers. Altitude: 0 to 1,000 meters. NT 1991. Bible portions 1981-1991.
KUKATJA (KUKAJA, GUGADJA) [KUX] 300 (1983 Black). Balgo, Lake Gregory and area to the east, south of Halls Creek, Western Australia. Australian, Pama-Nyungan, South-West, Wati. Bilingual in Pintupi-Luritja, Ngaanyatjarra, Martu Wangka, or Walmajarri.
KUKU-MANGK (KUGU-MANGK) [XMQ] 1 (1981 Wurm and Hattori). Queensland, Cape York Peninsula, east coast south of Aurukun. Australian, Pama-Nyungan, Paman, Middle Pama. Nearly extinct.
KUKU-MU'INH (KUGU-MU'INH) [XMP] 7 (1981 Wurm and Hattori). Queensland, Cape York Peninsula, east coast south of Aurukun. Australian, Pama-Nyungan, Paman, Middle Pama. Nearly extinct.
KUKU-MUMINH (KUGU-MUMINH, WIK MUMINH, WIK-MUMIN) [XMH] 31 (1981 Wurm and Hattori). Queensland, Cape York Peninsula, east coast south of Aurukun. Australian, Pama-Nyungan, Paman, Middle Pama. Survey needed.
KUKU-UGBANH (KUGU-UGBANH) [UGB] 6 (1981 Wurm and Hattori). Queensland, west coast Cape York Peninsula below Aurukun. Australian, Pama-Nyungan, Paman, Middle Pama. Nearly extinct.
KUKU-UWANH (KUGU-UWANH) [UWA] 40 (1981 Wurm and Hattori). Queensland, Cape York Peninsula, east coast south of Aurukun. Australian, Pama-Nyungan, Paman, Middle Pama. Survey needed.
KUKU-YALANJI (GUGUYALANJI, KOKO-YALANJI, KUKU-YALANGI) [GVN] 300 or more (1981 Wurm and Hattori). Wujal-Wujal, Bloomfield River, Queensland, between Cooktown and Mossman. Australian, Pama-Nyungan, Yalandyic. Some are bilingual in English. Dictionary. Typology: SOV. Scrub forest. Coastal, mountain slope. Hunter-gatherers formerly, now laborers. NT 1985. Bible portions 1967.
KUMBAINGGAR (GUMBAINGARI, GUMBAYNGGIR, KUMBAINGERI) [KGS] 1 possibly (1981 Wurm and Hattori). New South Wales, Grafton and north coast. Australian, Pama-Nyungan, Gumbaynggiric. Nearly extinct.
KUNBARLANG (GUNBALANG, WALANG, WARLANG, GUNGALANG) [WLG] 50 to 100 (1983 Black). Oenpelli, Maningrida, and Goulburn Island, Northern Territory. Australian, Gunwingguan, Gunwinggic. People generally speak Gunwinggu.
KUNGARAKANY (KUNGARAKANY, GUNGARAGAN, GUNERAKAN, KANGARRAGA, KUNGARAKAN) [GGK] Northern Territory, Finniss River. South of Darwin around Darwin River and Rum Jungle. Australian, Gungaraganyan. The last speaker died in 1989. Extinct.
KUNGGARA (GUNGGARA, KUNGGERA, GOOM-GHARRA) [KVS] Few speakers (SIL). Normanton, Delta, Queensland. Australian, Pama-Nyungan, Paman, Norman Pama. Possibly extinct. Nearly extinct.
KUNGGARI (COONGURRI, UNGORRI, GUNGARI, GUNGGARI) [KGL] Very few. Upper Nebine and Mungallala Creeks, Queensland. Australian, Pama-Nyungan, Maric, Kapu. Possibly extinct. Related to Birria, which may be extinct. Nearly extinct.
KUNJEN (GUGUMINJEN, KUKUMINDJEN) [KJN] 20 to 25 fluent speakers, 40 with some knowledge, about 300 in the ethnic group (1991 Bruce Sommer). Wrotham Park, Kowanyama, Edward River, Queensland. Australian, Pama-Nyungan, Paman, Central Pama. Dialects: ULKULU, OYKANGAND (OLGOL, OLGEL, OGONDYAN). Ethnic group members mainly speak Torres Strait Creole. Most are bilingual in other Aboriginal languages, English, or Kriol. Bible portions 1967.
KURRAMA (KURAMA, GURAMA, KARAMA, KORAMA) [VKU] 50 (?) (1981 Wurm and Hattori). Western Australia, northwest, southeast of Pannawonica. Australian, Pama-Nyungan, South-West, Coastal Ngayarda. Speakers are bilingual in English.
KUTHANT [QKD] 3 (?) (1981 Wurm and Hattori). Queensland, southwest Cape York Peninsula, north of Karumba and Normanton. Australian, Pama-Nyungan, Paman, Norman Pama. Ruhlen (1987) says it is extinct. Nearly extinct.
KUUKU-YA'U (YA'O, KOKO-JA'O, KOKOYAO, BAGADJI, PAKADJI) [QKL] 100 (?) (1981 Wurm and Hattori). Queensland, northeastern Cape York Peninsula south of Temple Bay. Australian, Pama-Nyungan, Paman, Northeastern Pama. Speakers are bilingual in Torres Strait Creole.
KUWAMA (PUNGUPUNGU) [QKU] 2 (?) (1981 Wurm and Hattori). Near mouth of Muldiva River, southwest of Darwin. Australian, Daly, Bringen-Wagaydy, Wagaydy. Nearly extinct.
KWINI (GWINI, GWIINI, CUINI, GUNIN, WUNAMBAL, GOONAN, KUNAN) [GWW] 50 or more (1979 Black). Kalumburu, Western Australia. Australian, Wororan, Wunambalic. Children may know some of the language, but most speak Aboriginal English as first language. Known in the area as 'Kwini', the name of the people. 'Goonan' (Kunan) is the name of the language. 'Gwini' is the Wunambal word for 'east' and was used by some people to refer to the Gunin and Yeidji.
LAMU-LAMU (LAMULAMUL, LAMALAMA) [LBY] 1 possibly (1981 Wurm and Hattori). Bamiga, Queensland, and Coen. Australian, Pama-Nyungan, Paman, Lamalamic. Ethnic groups include Baganambia, Gan-Ganda, Wurangung. Nearly extinct.
LARAGIA (LARAKIA, LARAKIYA, LARAGIYA) [LRG] Few (1983 Black). Darwin area, Northern Territory. Australian, Laragiyan. All speak English. Nearly extinct.
LARDIL (LADIL, LARDILL, LAIERDILA, KUNANA) [LBZ] 50 possibly (1981 Wurm and Hattori). Mornington Island, Queensland. Australian, Pama-Nyungan, Tangic. Related to Gayardilt, Nyangga, Yugulda. All apparently use English more than Lardil. Nearly extinct.
LENINGITIJ (LINNGITHIG, LINNGITHIGH) [LNJ] Winduwinda area, Queensland. Australian, Pama-Nyungan, Paman, Northern Pama. Recently extinct.
LIMILNGAN (MANADJA, MINITJI) [LMC] 3 (?) (1981 Wurm and Hattori). Northern Territory, Arnhem Land, between Mary River and W. Alligator River, from coast and inland. Australian, Unclassified. It may be the same as Lemil (Norweilimil; Oates 1970.29) or Manaidja (Manatja, Mandatja; Oates 1970.220). Nearly extinct.
MADNGELE (MATNGALA, WARAT, MADNGELA, MAANGELLA, MANDELLA, MUTTANGULLA) [ZML] 15 to 20 (1983 Black). Northern Territory, south of Darwin and Daly River, west bank of Muldiva River. Australian, Daly, Malagmalag, Daly Proper. Related to Kamu and Yunggor, which may be extinct. Nearly extinct.
MAGADIGE [ZMG] 30 (?) (1983 Black). Inland from Anson Bay, south of Maridjabin, southwest of Darwin. Australian, Daly, Bringen-Wagaydy, Bringen. Nearly extinct.
MALAY, COCOS ISLANDS (COCOS, KOKOS, KUKUS) [COA] 1,000 including 495 in Cocos Islands (1987); 558 on Christmas Island (1987); 3,000 in Sabah, Malaysia (1975 SIL); 4,000 in all countries. Cocos (Keeling) Islands, and Christmas Island. Also in Sabah, Malaysia. Austronesian, Malayo-Polynesian, Western Malayo-Polynesian, Sundic, Malayic, Malayan, Local Malay. Orthography and grammar requested. Vigorous language use. Young people are bilingual in English, but as the age increases the knowledge of English decreases. Muslim. Survey needed.
MALGANA (MALJANNA, MALDJANA, MALKANA) [VML] Western Australia, Shark Bay, south of Wooramel River to near Hamelin Pool. Australian, Pama-Nyungan, South-West, Kardu. Extinct.
MANDA [ZMA] 25 (?) (1983 Black). Northern Territory, coast southwest of Anson Bay, southwest of Darwin. Australian, Daly, Bringen-Wagaydy, Wagaydy. Speakers are bilingual in Kriol or English. Nearly extinct.
MANDANDANYI [ZMK] 1 (?) (1981 Wurm and Hattori). Queensland, around Roma from Maranoa River to near Miles and Wandoan. Australian, Pama-Nyungan, Maric, Mari. Nearly extinct.
MANGALA (MANGALAA, MANGARLA, MANALA, MINALA, DJAWALI, DJUWALI, JIWALI, JIWARLI, KOALGURDI, YALMBAU) [MEM] 20 possibly (1981 Wurm and Hattori). Broome, Jurgurra Creek, Edgar Range, southwest Fitzroy, West Pilbara, Western Australia. Australian, Pama-Nyungan, South-West, Marngu. Only elderly speakers. Children know a few words, but speak Kriol or Aboriginal English. Dictionary. Nearly extinct.
MANGARAYI (MUNGERRY, MANGARAI, MANGGARAI, MUNGARAI) [MPC] 50 or fewer (1983 Black). Mataranka and Elsey stations, Northern Territory. Australian, Gunwingguan, Mangarayic. People generally speak Kriol. Different from Mangerr (Mangerei).
MANGERR (MENGERRDJI, MANGEREI, MENNAGI, MANGERI) [ZME] 1 (?) (1981 Wurm and Hattori). Arnhem Land around Oenpelli. Australian, Mangerrian, Mangerric. Intelligible with Urningangg (Black). Nearly extinct.
MARA (LEELALWARRA, LEELAWARRA, MALA, MARRA) [MEC] 15 or fewer (1991 M. Sharpe). Roper River area, Arnhem Land, Northern Territory. Australian, Maran, Mara. Speakers intermarry with the Yanyuwa. Most speak Kriol and are bilingual in English. Related to Yugul, which may be extinct. Nearly extinct.
MARANUNGGU [ZMR] 15 to 20 (1983 Black). Southwest of Darwin, inland from Anson Bay, east of Manda. Australian, Daly, Bringen-Wagaydy, Wagaydy. Young people speak Kriol. Nearly extinct.
MARGANY [ZMC] 1 (?) (1981 Wurm and Hattori). Queensland, between Quilpie and Wyandra, Bulloo River and Paroo River. Australian, Pama-Nyungan, Maric, Mari. Nearly extinct.
MARGU (AJOKOOT, JAAKO, TERUTONG, YAAKO, YAKO) [MHG] 4 possibly (1981 Wurm and Hattori). Croker Island, Northern Territory. Australian, Yiwaidjan, Margic. Nearly extinct.
MARIDAN (MERADAN) [ZMD] 20 (?) (1981 Wurm and Hattori). Southwest of Darwin, north of Moyle River, east of Magadige. Australian, Daly, Bringen-Wagaydy, Bringen. Nearly extinct.
MARIDJABIN (MARETYABIN, MARIDYERBIN, MAREDYERBIN) [ZMJ] 20 (1970 Oates). Northern Territory, inland from Anson Bay, south of Mariyedi and Manda, southwest of Darwin. Australian, Daly, Bringen-Wagaydy, Bringen. Speakers are bilingual in Kriol. May be intelligible with Marithiel or Maringarr.
MARIMANINDJI (MARAMARANDJI, MARAMANANDJI, MARIMANINDU, MURINMANINDJI, MARRAMANINJSJI) [ZMM] 15 (?) (1983 Black). Northern Territory, south of Darwin and Daly River, west of Muldiva River, near headwaters. Australian, Daly, Bringen-Wagaydy, Bringen. Nearly extinct.
MARINGARR (MARENGGAR, MARINGA) [ZMT] 30 to 40 (1983 Black). Northern Territory south of Moyle River, southwest of Darwin. Australian, Daly, Bringen-Wagaydy, Bringen. Dialect: MARANUNGGU (MARRANUNGA, MARAMANUNGGU, MERRANUNGGU, WARRGAT). 40% lexical similarity with MullukMulluk and Murrinh-Patha. Speakers are bilingual in Kriol. May be intelligible with other Bringen languages.
MARITHIEL (MARIDHIYEL, MARITHIYEL, MARRITHIYEL, MARIDHIEL, "BRINKEN", "BRINGEN", BERRINGEN) [MFR] 25 fluent speakers, 50 second language users (1983 Black). 30 to 50 miles south of Daly River and central Daly River; Daly River Mission, Bagot, Delissaville, Roper River Mission, Northern Territory. Australian, Daly, Bringen-Wagaydy, Bringen. Dialects: MARITHIEL, NGANYGIT, MARE-AMMU. The people dislike the name "Brinken". People generally speak Kriol. Nearly extinct.
MARIYEDI [ZMY] 20 (?) (1981 Wurm and Hattori). Inland from Anson Bay, south of Manda, southwest of Darwin. Australian, Daly, Bringen-Wagaydy, Bringen. Nearly extinct.
MARTU WANGKA [MPJ] 720 (1991 J. Marsh SIL), 100 In Wankajunga (1991). Western Australia, Jigalong area, western side of Lake Disappointment, Great Sandy Desert. Australian, Pama-Nyungan, South-West, Wati. Dialects: MANYJILYJARA (MANTJILTJARA), KARTUJARRA (KARTUTJARA, KARDUTJARA, KADADDJARA, KARDUTJARRA, KIADJARA, GARDUDJARA, GAGUDJARA), PUDITARA (BUDIDJARA, PUTUJARA), YULPARITJA (YILPARITJA, YULBARIDJA), WANGKAJUNGA (WANGKAJUNGKA). Mantjiltjara and Kartutjara are two tribal groups speaking almost identical dialects. High inherent intelligibility between Yulparitja and Wangkajunga. Speakers of the 4 dialects can use the same written language with possible minor adjustments, including vocabulary change, partly needed because of cultural identity factors. Puditara dialect is extinct. Dictionary. Bible portions 1981-1994. Work in progress.
MARTUYHUNIRA [VMA] 5 (?) (1981 Wurm and Hattori). Western Australia, northwest coast southwest of Dampier and inland. Australian, Pama-Nyungan, South-West, Coastal Ngayarda. Nearly extinct.
MAUNG (GUNMARUNG, MANAGARI) [MPH] 200 (1983 Black). Goulburn Island, Arnhem Land, Northern Territory. Australian, Yiwaidjan, Yiwaidjic. Speakers are bilingual in English or Gunwinggu with some limitations. Bible portions 1960.
MAYAGUDUNA (MAYI-KUTUNA) [XMY] 2 (?). Queensland, near north coast, inland between Leichhardt River and Flinders River. Australian, Pama-Nyungan, Paman, Mayabic. Ruhlen (1987) says it is extinct. Nearly extinct.
MAYKULAN (MAYI-KULAN) [MNT] Canobie, Queensland. Australian, Pama-Nyungan, Paman, Mayabic. Extinct.
MBARA [VMB] 2 (?) (1981 Wurm and Hattori). Queensland, north of Stawell River. Australian, Pama-Nyungan, Paman, Southern Pama. Ruhlen (1987) says it is extinct. Nearly extinct.
MBARIMAN-GUDHINMA [ZMV] 3 (?) (1981 Wurm and Hattori). Queensland, Cape York Peninsula, southwest coast of Princess Charlotte Bay. Australian, Pama-Nyungan, Paman, Lamalamic. Nearly extinct.
MERIAM (MIRIAM-MIR, MIRIAM, MER, MIR) [ULK] 300 to 400 active speakers in Australia (1991 Rod Kennedy); 700 in both countries (1975 Wurm). Murray Island, Eastern Torres Strait Islands, Queensland. Also some islands in Papua New Guinea. Trans-New Guinea, Trans-Fly-Bulaka River, Trans-Fly, Eastern Trans-Fly. Dialects: BOIGU, BULGAI, BUGLIAL, TAGOTA. Most people are bilingual in Torres Strait Creole. No literacy programs have been run for more than a generation. Bible portions 1879-1902. Survey needed.
MIRIWUNG (MIRUNG, MERONG, MIRIWUN, MIRIWOONG) [MEP] 10 to 20 fluent first language speakers (1990 Schmidt); possibly 350 partial speakers (1983:20 Black). Kununurra, Western Australia, and Turkey Creek. Australian, Djeragan, Miriwungic. The young people use only Kriol. Some older people still speak Miriwung. Most speak Kriol. Nearly extinct.
MIWA (BAGU) [VMI] 4 (?) (1981 Wurm and Hattori). Western Australia, Drysdale River, far northern Kimberleys area. Australian, Wororan, Wunambalic. Nearly extinct.
MUDBURA (MUDBURRA) [MWD] 50 possibly (1983 Black). Victoria River to Barkly Tablelands, Northern Territory. Australian, Pama-Nyungan, South-West, Ngumbin. Most speakers are bilingual in English and other Aboriginal languages.
MULLUKMULLUK (MALAK-MALAK, MALAGMALAG, NGOLAK-WONGA, NGULUWONGGA) [MPB] 9 to 11 fully fluent speakers (1988 Ellis SIL). Northern bank of Daly River, Northern Territory. Australian, Daly, Malagmalag, Malagmalag Proper. Tryon says it is a dying language. People generally speak Kriol. Nearly extinct.
MULURIDYI (BINJARA, KOKOMOLOROIJ, KOKOMOLOROITJI, KOOKANOONA, MOLLOROIDYI, MOOLOROIJI, MULARITCHEE, MULLRIDGEY, MULURUTJI, WALURIDJI) [VMU] 1 (?) (1981 Wurm and Hattori). Queensland, headwaters of Mitchell River, to Mt. Carbine, Rumula, Mareeba, Woodville. Australian, Pama-Nyungan, Yalandyic. Nearly extinct.
MURRINH-PATHA (MURINBADA, MURINBATA, GARAMA) [MWF] 900 or more (1990 Schmidt). Port Keats area, Wadeye, Northern Territory. Australian, Daly, Murrinh-Patha. Dialects: MURRINHPATHA, MURRINHKURA, MURRINHDIMININ. At Port Keats about 90% are bilingual in English or other Aboriginal languages. Related to Ngan'gitjemerri, which may be extinct. Typology: SOV. Tropical savannah. Coastal. Hunter-gatherers, fishermen (traditionally). Altitude: 50 to 100 meters. Bible portions 1982. Work in progress.
MURUWARI (MURAWARI) [ZMU] 1 (?) (1981 Wurm and Hattori). Queensland and New South Wales from Bollon, Dirranbandi, Weilmoringle, Bourke, almost to Cunnamulla. Australian, Pama-Nyungan, Muruwaric. Dictionary. Nearly extinct.
NAKARA (KOKORI, NAGARA, NAKKARA) [NCK] 75 to 100 (1983 Black). Maningrida, Arnhem Land, Northern Territory, Goulburn Island. Australian, Burarran. People generally speak Burarra or Djeebbana.
NANGIKURRUNGGURR (NGENKIKURRUNGGUR, NGANGIKARANGURR, NGANKIKURRUNKURR, NANGIKURUNGGURR) [NAM] 275 (1988 J. Ellis SIL), including 40 Ngenkiwumerri (1983 Black). Junction of Flora and Daly rivers, Daly River Mission, Tipperary Station, Northern Territory. Australian, Daly, Moil. Dialects: TYEMERI (MOIL, NGANKIKURRUNKURR), NGENKIWUMERRI (NANGUMIRI, NANGIOMERI, ANGOMERRY, MAREWUMIRI, NANGIMERA, NGANGOMORI). 84% lexical similarity with Ngenkiwumerri dialect. Speakers are bilingual in Kriol or English. Main language in Daly River group.
NARRINYERI (NGARINYERI) [NAY] South Australia. Australian, Pama-Nyungan, Ngarinyeric-Yithayithic. Recently extinct. Bible portions 1864.
NARUNGGA (NARANGGA, NANUNGA, NARANGA, NARRANGA, NARRANGGU, NARRANGU) [NNR] 1 (?) (1981 Wurm and Hattori). South Australia, south Yorke Peninsula. Australian, Pama-Nyungan, South-West, Yura. Dialects: ADJABDURAH (ADJAHDURAH), TURRA. May have become extinct in 1936. Nearly extinct.
NGAANYATJARRA (NYANGANYATJARA, NGAANYATJARA) [NTJ] 1,200 (1995 D. Hackett). Warburton Ranges, Western Australia. Australian, Pama-Nyungan, South-West, Wati. 11% literate in Ngaanyatjarra. Grammar. NT 1991. Bible portions 1976-1986.
NGADJUNMAYA (BADONJUNGA, BARDOJUNGA, NGADJU, NGADJUNMAIA, NGADJUMAJA, NGATJUMAY, TCHAAKALAAGA) [NJU] 10 (?) (1981 Wurm and Hattori). Western Australia, Eyre's Sand Patch, Goddard Creek to Port Malcolm, to Fraser Range, to Naretha and Point Culver, at Mount Andres, Russell Range, and Balladonia. Australian, Pama-Nyungan, South-West, Mirning. Related to Kalarko and Mirning. Nearly extinct.
NGALAKAN (HONGALLA, NGALANGAN) [NIG] 10 possibly (1981 Wurm and Hattori). Roper River area, Northern Territory. Australian, Gunwingguan, Ngalakanic. Related to Ngalkbun and Rembarranga. Nearly extinct.
NGALKBUN (NGALKBON, DALABON, BUIN, BOUN, BUAN, BOUIN, BUWAN, GUNDANGBON, NALABON, DANGBON) [NGK] 100 to 200 (1983 Black). Oenpelli, Arnhem Land, Northern Territory, Katherine area. Australian, Gunwingguan, Gunwinggic. Some are bilingual in Rembarrnga, some in Gunwinggu, probably most in Kriol. Some Rembarunga use this as a second language.
NGAMINI [NMV] 2 (?) (1981 Wurm and Hattori). South Australia around Narburton Creek. Australian, Pama-Nyungan, Karnic, Karna. Nearly extinct.
NGANDI [NID] Upper Wilton River, Northern Territory. Australian, Gunwingguan, Ngandic. Extinct.
NGANYAYWANA [NYX] New South Wales, northeastern, between Inverell, Ashford, and Glen Innes. Australian, Pama-Nyungan, Yuin-Kuric, Kuri. Ruhlen (1987) says it is extinct.
NGARINMAN (AIRIMAN, HAINMAN, NGAIMAN, NGRARMUN) [NBJ] 170 possibly (1983 Black). Victoria River around Jasper Creek, Northern Territory. Australian, Pama-Nyungan, South-West, Ngumbin. Dialect: BILINARA. People generally speak Kriol.
NGARINYIN (UNGARINYIN, UNGARINJIN) [UNG] 82 possibly (1981 Wurm and Hattori). Derby to King River, Kimberley, Western Australia. Australian, Wororan, Ungarinjinic. Dialects: WILAWILA, WOLYAMIDI, GUWIDJ, WURLA (WORLA, WORLAJA, WULA, OLA, WALAR, WULADJA, WULADJANGARI). Children may know some of the language. Most children speak Kriol as first language. A different Wurla is described by Alan Rumsey 1990, reported to still be spoken. Typology: OSV, VOS. Savannah. Interfluvial, coastal. Hunter-gatherers. Now station hands and country town workers. Work in progress.
NGARLA [NLR] 8 fluent speakers, 10 partial speakers (1991 B. Geytenbeek SIL). Western Australia, Port Hedland area. Australian, Pama-Nyungan, South-West, Inland Ngayarda. Nearly extinct.
NGARLUMA (NGALUMA, GNALOUMA, GNALLUMA, NGALLOOMA) [NRL] 70 (1970 C.G. von Brandenstein). Western Australia, northwest coast around Roebourne and inland. Australian, Pama-Nyungan, South-West, Coastal Ngayarda. Speakers are bilingual in English.
NGARNDJI [NJI] 3 (?) (1981 Wurm and Hattori). Northern Territory, Barkly Tableland, northeast of Lake Woods. Australian, West Barkly, Wambayan. Nearly extinct.
NGAWUN [NXN] 1 (?) (1981 Wurm and Hattori). Queensland, southwest of Croydon, between Flinders River and Norman River. Australian, Pama-Nyungan, Paman, Mayabic. Nearly extinct.
NGURA [NBX] 6 possibly; including 1 Punthamara, 4 Wongkumara, 2 Badjiri, and 1 Kalali (1981 Wurm and Hattori). Northwestern New South Wales and southwestern Queensland. Australian, Pama-Nyungan, Karnic, Ngura. Dialects: PUNTHAMARA (BUNDHAMARA), KALALI (GARLALI), WONGKUMARA (WANGKUMARA, WANGUMARRA), BADJIRI, BIDJARA, DHIRAILA, GARANDALA, MAMBANGURA, MINGBARI, NGURAWARLA, YARUMARRA. Wurm and Hattori list the dialects as separate languages. Nearly extinct.
NGURMBUR (NGORMBUR, GNORMBUR, GNUMBU, KOARNBUT, NGUMBUR, OORMBUR) [NRX] 1 (?) (1981 Wurm and Hattori). Northern Territory, Arnhem Land, between West and South Alligator Rivers, northeast of Umbugarla. Australian, Unclassified. Nearly extinct.
NHUWALA [NHF] 10 (?) (1981 Wurm and Hattori). Western Australia, northwest, Barrow and Monte Bello Islands and nearby coast. Australian, Pama-Nyungan, South-West, Coastal Ngayarda. Wordick says it may be extinct. Nearly extinct.
NIJADALI (NJIJAPALI, NYIYABALI, BAILKO, BALYGU, PALJGU, BALGU, JAUNA) [NAD] 6 (1990 B. Geytenbeek SIL). Western Australia, Marblebar, and possibly some at Nulagine. Australian, Pama-Nyungan, South-West, Wati. Two groups: Bailko and Jauna. People generally speak Aboriginal English or Nyangumarta. Nearly extinct.
NIMANBUR [NMP] 2 (?) (1981 Wurm and Hattori). Western Australia, southwest of King Sound and inland. Australian, Nyulnyulan. Nearly extinct.
NUGUNU (NUKUNA, DOORA, NJUGUNA, NOKUNNA, NOOCOONA, NOOKOONA, NUGUNA, NUKANA, NUKUNNU, NUKUNU, PUKUNNA, TJURA, TYURA, WALLAROO, WARRA, WONGAIDYA) [NNV] 1 (?) (1981 Wurm and Hattori). South Australia, south of Gugada people to coast west to Fowler's Bay and east to Streaky Bay, eastern Spencer Gulf. Australian, Pama-Nyungan, South-West, Yura. Dictionary. Nearly extinct.
NUNGALI [NUG] 2 possibly (1981 Wurm and Hattori). Upper Daly River area, Northern Territory. Australian, Djamindjungan. Nearly extinct.
NUNGGUBUYU (NUNGGUBUJU) [NUY] 300 fluent speakers, 400 partial or second language speakers (1991 M. Hore ANG). Numbulwar, east Arnhem Land, Northern Territory. Australian, Gunwingguan, Nunggubuan. Children understand Nunggubuyu, but speak Kriol. Speakers are bilingual in Kriol. Not intelligible with other languages. Most Ritharrngu speakers around Numbulwar understand it fairly well. Hunter-gatherers. Coastal. Altitude: 0 to 30 meters. Bible portions 1946-1993. Work in progress.
NYAMAL (GNAMO, NAMEL, NJAMAL, NJAMARL, NYAMEL) [NLY] 20 to 30 (1991 B. Geytenbeek SIL). Western Australia, northwest, around Bamboo Creek, Marble Bar, Nullagine, to coast just east of Port Hedland. Australian, Pama-Nyungan, South-West, Inland Ngayarda. Children speak Nyangumarta or English.
NYANGGA (JANGA, JANGAA, JANGGA, NJANGGA, YANGGAL, JANG-KALA, NJANGGALA, YANGARELLA, YUCKAMURRI) [NNY] 1 (?) (1981 Wurm and Hattori). Queensland, head of Gilbert River, south of Forsayth to Gledswood and Gregory Range to Oak Park and Glenora; Northern Territory, coast east of Robinson River. Australian, Pama-Nyungan, Tangic. Reported to be the same as Ganggalida (Yugulda, Jakula). Nearly extinct.
NYANGUMARTA (NYANGUMARDA, NYANGUMATA) [NNA] 520 (1991 B. Geytenbeek SIL). Marble Bar, Port Hedlund, Tjalku Wara, Western Australia. Australian, Pama-Nyungan, South-West, Marngu. Work in progress.
NYAWAYGI [NYT] 1 (?) (1981 Wurm and Hattori). Queensland coast between Ingham and Townsville. Australian, Pama-Nyungan, Nyawaygic. Related to Wulguru, Bindal, and Yuru, which may be extinct. Nearly extinct.
NYIGINA (NYIKINA) [NYH] 50 possibly (1981 Wurm and Hattori). Lower Fitzroy River, Western Australia. Australian, Nyulnyulan. Most are bilingual in Walmatjari. Children speak Kriol or Aboriginal English as first language.
NYULNYUL [NYV] 3 (?) (1981 Wurm and Hattori). Western Australia, coast around Beagle Bay. Australian, Nyulnyulan. Nearly extinct.
NYUNGA (NYUNGAR) [NYS] Southwest Australia. Australian, Pama-Nyungan, South-West, Nyungar. Recently extinct. Former Nyungar languages: Tjapanmay, Karlamay, Pipelman, Ngatjumay, Kwetjman, Mirnong, Kaniyang. There are about 8,000 people who are descended from the Nyunga and speak a mixture of English and Nyunga. They are sometimes called 'Noonga', 'Noongar', or 'Noogar', and their speech 'Neo-Nyunga'.
PAKANHA [PKN] 10 (?) (1981 Wurm and Hattori). Queensland, central Cape York Peninsula, south of Coleman River. Australian, Pama-Nyungan, Paman, Middle Pama. Nearly extinct.
PANYTYIMA (PANDJIMA, BANDJIMA, PANJIMA, PANYJIMA, BANJIMA) [PNW] 50 (1972 B. Geytenbeek). Western Australia, northwest, east southeast of Tom Price. Australian, Pama-Nyungan, South-West, Inland Ngayarda. Related to Yinawongga, Ngarlawangga, Ngarla, Tjurruru, which may be extinct, and Nyamal. Speakers are bilingual in Yindjibarndi or English.
PINI (PINIRITJARA, PIRNIRITJARA, BINI, BIRNI) [PII] Few speakers. Three Rivers, Western Australia. Australian, Pama-Nyungan, South-West, Wati. Possibly extinct. Nearly extinct.
PINIGURA (BINIGURA) [PNV] 5 (?) (1981 Wurm and Hattori). Western Australia, northwest, inland on Duck Creek. Australian, Pama-Nyungan, South-West, Coastal Ngayarda. Nearly extinct.
PINTIINI (PINDIINI, WANGADA, WANGGAJI, WANGKATJA, WONGA, WONGAI-I, WONGGAII) [PTI] 200 to 300 (1983 Black). Western Australia, northern margin of Nullabor Plain from north of Hughes. Australian, Pama-Nyungan, South-West, Wati. Speakers use Pitjantjatjara or Ngaanyatjarra as second language. Survey needed.
PINTUPI-LURITJA (PINTUBI, BINDDIBU, LORIDJA) [PIU] 800 or more (1983 Black). Papunya settlement, Yuendumu and Kintore, Northern Territory, and Balgo Hills, Western Australia. Australian, Pama-Nyungan, South-West, Wati. About 10% are bilingual in English. NT 1981. Bible portions 1972-1977.
PITCAIRN-NORFOLK (PITCAIRN ENGLISH) [PIH] (630 or fewer; 1989 Holm). Also in New Zealand, Pitcairn Island, Norfolk Island, Fiji. English-Tahitian cant. An in-group language used to assist in the preservation of identity. The people speak Standard English as mother tongue. There may be no speakers on the Australian mainland. Christian. Second language only. No mother tongue speakers.
PITJANTJATJARA (PITJANTJARA) [PJT] 2,500 speakers, including dialects (1995 Paul Eckert), 3,000 including second language speakers (1995 Paul Eckert). Pitjantjatjara Freehold lands, northwest South Australia, surrounding areas, and Yalata. Australian, Pama-Nyungan, South-West, Wati. Dialects: YANKUNYTJATJARA, PITJANTJATJARA. Pitjantjatjara is one of the many varieties of the 'Western Desert language'. About 20% are bilingual in English. 50% to 70% literate in Pitjantjatjara Dictionary. Grammars. Bible portions 1949-1995. Work in progress.
PITTA PITTA (PITA PITA, BIDHABIDHA, BIDA-BIDA) [PIT] 2 possibly (1981 Wurm and Hattori). Boulia, Queensland. Australian, Pama-Nyungan, Karnic, Palku. Distinct from Pita Pita. Related to Gangalanya, Garanya, Lhanima, Ngurlubulu, Ragaya, Rangwa, Yurlayurlanya, which may be extinct, and Wanggamala. Nearly extinct.
REMBARUNGA (REMBARRANGA, REMBARRNGA, RAINBARGO) [RMB] 150 (1983 Black). Roper River area, Maningrida and outstations, Katherine area, Northern Territory. Australian, Gunwingguan, Rembargic. Few children seem to be learning the language. Many are bilingual in Kriol, Ngalkbun, or Gunwinggu.
RITARUNGO (RITARNUGU, RITHARNGU, RIDHARRNGU, RIDARNGO, WAGELAK, WAWILAG) [RIT] 300 or more (1983 Black). Eastern Arnhem Land (Rose River, Roper River), Northern Territory. Australian, Pama-Nyungan, Yuulngu. Some are bilingual in Kriol, some in Djinba. Survey needed.
THAYORE (KUUK THAAYOORE, KUUK THAAYORRE, THAAYORE, THAYORRE, TAIOR, GUGUDAYOR, KUKTAYOR, KUKUDAYORE, BEHRAN) [THD] 150 speakers (1991 SIL) out of 350 in the ethnic group (1982 A. Hall). Between Edward and Coleman rivers, Western Cape York, Queensland. Australian, Pama-Nyungan, Paman, Western Pama. Related to Kuuk-Yak and Yir Thangedl, which may be extinct. Typology: SVO. Desert, savannah, scrub forest. Coastal plains. Hunter-gatherers, fishermen. Altitude: sea level. Bible portions 1981. Work in progress.
THAYPAN [TYP] 2 (?) (1981 Wurm and Hattori). Queensland, central Cape York Peninsula, Coleman River. Australian, Pama-Nyungan, Paman, Rarmul Pama. Nearly extinct.
THURAWAL (DHARAWAL, DHARAWAAL, TURRUBUL) [TBH] Port Hacking to Shoalhaven River, New South Wales. Australian, Pama-Nyungan, Yuin-Kuric, Yuin. Dialect: WADIWADI (WODIWODI). Recently extinct. People now speak English or Aboriginal English.
TIWI [TIW] 1,500 including non-fluent speakers (1983 Black). Bathurst and Melville Islands, Nguiu, Northern Territory. Australian, Tiwian. All use English as second language. Typology: SVO. Scrub forest. Coastal, islands. Hunter-gatherers formerly; now laborers, craftsmen. Altitude: sea level. Bible portions 1979-1985. Work in progress.
TJURRURU [TJU] Western Australia, northwest, Hardey River, southwest of Tom Price. Australian, Pama-Nyungan, South-West, Inland Ngayarda. Ruhlen (1987) says it is extinct.
TORRES STRAIT CREOLE (TORRES STRAIT PIDGIN, TORRES STRAIT BROKEN, CAPE YORK CREOLE, LOCKHART CREOLE) [TCS] 23,400 or fewer (1989 J. Holm); others are second language users. Torres Strait Islands, towns on upper Cape York and some towns on the east coast of north Queensland. Creole, English based, Pacific. Dialects: AP-NE-AP, MODERN LANGUS. A creolization of Tok Pisin or Bislama and Kala Lagau Langgus. 80% lexical similarity with English. The lingua franca between the western and central islanders and the eastern islanders. Work in progress.
TYARAITY (DYERAIDY, DAKTJERAT, TJERAIT, DJERADJ, DJERAG, KUWEMA) [WOA] Few (1983 Black). Delissaville, Northern Territory. They were originally near the mouth of the Reynold River. Australian, Daly, Malagmalag, Malagmalag Proper. All or most are bilingual in English. Nearly extinct.
UMBINDHAMU [UMD] 6 (?) (1981 Wurm and Hattori). Queensland, Cape York Peninsula, north of Coen. Australian, Pama-Nyungan, Paman, Lamalamic. Nearly extinct.
UMBUGARLA (MBAKARLA) [UMR] 3 (?) (1981 Wurm and Hattori). Northern Territory, Arnhem Land, southeast of Limilngan, between Mary River and South Alligator River. Australian, Unclassified. Nearly extinct.
UMBUYGAMU [UMG] 7 (?) (1981 Wurm and Hattori). Queensland, Cape York Peninsula, east coast of Princess Charlotte Bay. Australian, Pama-Nyungan, Paman, Lamalamic. Nearly extinct.
UMPILA [UMP] 100 possibly (1981 Wurm and Hattori). Cape Sidmouth and north nearly to Night Island, Queensland. Australian, Pama-Nyungan, Paman, Northeastern Pama. Only a few older people know Umpila; the middle generation has varying proficiency; the younger generation speak Torres Strait Creole.
URADHI [URF] 2 (?) (1981 Wurm and Hattori). Queensland, northeast Cape York Peninsula, North Alice Creek. Australian, Pama-Nyungan, Paman, Northern Pama. Nearly extinct.
URNINGANGG (UNINGANGK, URNINGANGG, WUNINGAK) [URC] Few (1983 Black). Arnhem Land, northwest; upper reaches of Alligator River. Australian, Mangerrian, Urninganggic. Intelligible with Mangerr. Nearly extinct.
WADJIGINY (WOGAITY, WAGAYDY) [WDJ] 12 fluent speakers (1988 J. Ellis SIL). Southwest of Darwin along coast and inland along Finniss River. Australian, Daly, Bringen-Wagaydy, Wagaydy. Dialect: PUNGUPUNGU (KUWAMA). The people speak Kriol, but understand Wadjiginy when the older people speak it. Nearly extinct.
WADJIGU [WDU] 1 (?) (1981 Wurm and Hattori). Queensland, southwest of Fairbairn Reservoir. Australian, Pama-Nyungan, Maric, Mari. Nearly extinct.
WAGAYA (WAKAYA, WAAGAI, WAAGI, WAGAI, WAGAJA, WAGGAIA, WAKAJA, WAKKAJA, WARKYA, WORGAI, WORGAIA, WORKIA, LEEWAKYA, UKKIA) [WGA] Few (1983 Black). Northern Territory, Avon Downs, Camooweal, Austral Downs, area north of Lake Nash. Australian, Pama-Nyungan, Wagaya-Warluwaric, Wagaya. Nearly extinct.
WAGEMAN (WOGEMAN, WAGIMAN) [WAQ] 50 (?) (1983 Black). South of Pine Creek, Tipperary Station, and Bagot, Northern Territory. Australian, Gunwingguan, Yangmanic, Wagiman. People generally speak Kriol.
WAKAWAKA (WAKKA, WAGA, WAGAWAGA, ENIBURA, NUKUNUKUBARA) [WKW] 3 possibly (1981 Wurm and Hattori). Nanango north to Mt. Perry, west to Boyne River, at Kingaroy, Murgon, and Gayndah, Queensland. Australian, Pama-Nyungan, Waka-Kabic, Miyan. Dialects: DUUNGIDJAWU, WAGAWAGA. Most speak English. Related to Wuliwuli, Barunggam, Gayabara, Muringam, which may be extinct. Nearly extinct.
WALMAJARRI (WALMATJARI, WALMATJIRI, WALMAJIRI, WOLMERI) [WMT] 1,000 (1990 Schmidt). Area along the Fitzroy River valley, Lake Gregory and La Grange, Western Australia. Australian, Pama-Nyungan, South-West, Ngumbin. Dialect: DJUWARLINY. Some children understand and respond to Walmajarri, but their first language is Kriol. The western group speaks Juwaliny. Dictionary. Typology: SOV. Semi-desert. Plains. Hunter-gatherers. Bible portions 1978-1985.
WAMBAYA (WAMBAIA, WAMBAJA, WOMBYA, WOM-BY-A, UMBAIA, YUMPIA) [WMB] 12 (?) including dialects (1981 Wurm and Hattori); up to 80 (1983 Black). Northern Territory, Barkly Tableland, headwaters of Limmen Bight and McArthur rivers, and east of Lake Woods. Australian, West Barkly, Wambayan. Dialects: WAMBAYA, BINBINGA, GUDANDJI. Black (1983) says the dialects are inherently intelligible. Second language is Kriol. Nearly extinct.
WAMIN [WMI] 1 (?) (1981 Wurm and Hattori). Queensland, northwest of Einasleigh. Australian, Pama-Nyungan, Paman, Southern Pama. Nearly extinct.
WANDARANG (WANDARAN, WARNDARANG) [WND] Arnhem Land, Roper River area, Northern Territory. Australian, Maran, Mara. People now speak Kriol. Extinct.
WANGAAYBUWAN-NGIYAMBAA [WYB] 12 (?) (1981 Wurm and Hattori). New South Wales, Darling River, Barwon River River, Yanda Creek, Bogan River. Australian, Pama-Nyungan, Wiradhuric. Dialects: WANGAAYBUWAN (WONGAIBON, WOMBUNGEE, WONGAGIBUN, WONGHIBON, WONGHI, WONJHIBON), NGIYAMBAA (GIAMBA, NARRAN, NOONGABURRAH, NGEUMBA, NGIAMBA, NGIUMBA, NGJAMBA, NGUMBARR), WAYILWAN (WALJWAN). Nearly extinct.
WANGGAMALA [WNM] 1 (?) (1981 Wurm and Hattori). Northern Territory, Hay River, south of Andegerebinha. Australian, Pama-Nyungan, Karnic, Palku. Nearly extinct.
WANGGANGURU [WGG] 8 (1981 Wurm and Hattori). Northern Territory, southeast corner. Australian, Pama-Nyungan, Karnic, Arabana-Wangganguru. Nearly extinct.
WANMAN (WARNMAN) [WBT] 20 (1973 B. Geytenbeck SIL). Marble Bar area, Western Australia. Australian, Pama-Nyungan, South-West, Wati. People generally speak English, Martu Wangka, or Nyangumarta.
WARAY (WARRAI, ARWUR, AWARAI, AWARRA) [WRZ] 4 (?) (1981 Wurm and Hattori). Adelaide River area, Northern Territory. Australian, Gunwingguan, Warayan. Nearly extinct.
WARDAMAN (WADAMAN, WADERMAN, WADUMAN, WARDA'MAN, WARDUMAN, WARTAMAN, WARDMAN, WORDAMAN) [WRR] 50 (?) (1983 Black). Northern Territory, upper Daly River. Australian, Gunwingguan, Yangmanic, Yibwan. People generally speak Kriol.
WARIYANGGA (WARRIYANGKA) [WRI] Western Australia, southeast of Mount Augustus, West Pilbara. Australian, Pama-Nyungan, South-West, Inland Ngayarda. Ruhlen (1987) classifies it in a separate Mantharda group. Dictionary. Extinct.
WARLMANPA (WALMALA) [WRL] 50 (?) (1981 Wurm and Hattori). Northern Territory, Mount Leichhardt area. Australian, Pama-Nyungan, South-West, Ngarga. People generally speak Kriol.
WARLPIRI (WALBIRI, ELPIRA, ILPARA, WAILBRI, WALPIRI) [WBP] 3,000 (1990 Schmidt). Northern Territory, Yuendumu, Ali Curung Willowra, Alice Springs, Katherine, Darwin, and Lajamanu. Australian, Pama-Nyungan, South-West, Ngarga. Related to Warlmanpa, Ngardi (Ngarti, Ngari, Ngati, Ngadi), and Kartangaruru. Typology: SOV. Desert. Plains. Hunter-gatherers, nomadic. Bible portions 1985-1993. Work in progress.
WARLUWARA (MAULA, MAUULA, MAWULA, WALOOKERA, WALUGERA, WALUWARA, WOLLEGARA, YUNNALINKA) [WRB] 3 (?) (1981 Wurm and Hattori). Queensland, Roxborough Downs. Australian, Pama-Nyungan, Wagaya-Warluwaric, Warluwara-Thawa. Nearly extinct.
WARRGAMAY [WGY] 3 (?) (1981 Wurm and Hattori). Queensland, coast south of Hinchinbrook Island, and inland along Herbert River. Australian, Pama-Nyungan, Dyirbalic. Nearly extinct.
WARUMUNGU (WARRAMUNGA) [WRM] 200 (1983 Black). Tennant Creek area, Northern Territory. Australian, Pama-Nyungan, Warumungic. People generally speak Kriol.
WARUNGU [WRG] 2 (?) (1981 Wurm and Hattori). Queensland, northeast of Einasleigh. Australian, Pama-Nyungan, Maric, Mari. Nearly extinct.
WATJARI (WATJARRI, WADJARI, WADJERI) [WBV] 50 or fewer fluent speakers out of an ethnic group of fewer than 200 (1981 W. Douglas). Mt. Magnet to Geraldton, Western Australia. Australian, Pama-Nyungan, South-West, Wadjari. People generally speak English. Related to Badimay and Wirdimay which may be extinct.
WIKALKAN (WIKNGATARA, WIK-NGATHARA, WIK-NGATHARRA) [WIK] 86 (1981 Wurm and Hattori). Aurukun, Queensland. Australian, Pama-Nyungan, Paman, Middle Pama. Dialects: WIK-NGANDJARA (NGANDJARA), NGADANJA. Young people speak Wik-Mungkan. Survey needed.
WIK-EPA [WIE] 3 (?) (1981 Wurm and Hattori). Queensland, Cape York Peninsula, southeast of Aurukun. Australian, Pama-Nyungan, Paman, Middle Pama. Nearly extinct.
WIK-IIYANH [WIJ] 40 (1981 Wurm and Hattori). Queensland, central Cape York Peninsula, southwest of Coen. Australian, Pama-Nyungan, Paman, Middle Pama. Survey needed.
WIK-KEYANGAN [WIF] 3 (1981 Wurm and Hattori). Queensland, Cape York Peninsula, southeast of Aurukun. Australian, Pama-Nyungan, Paman, Middle Pama. Nearly extinct.
WIK-ME'ANHA [WIH] 12 (1981 Wurm and Hattori). Queensland, Cape York Peninsula, southeast of Aurukun. Australian, Pama-Nyungan, Paman, Middle Pama. Nearly extinct.
WIK-MUNGKAN (WIK-MUNKAN, MUNKAN) [WIM] 400 to 1,000 including second language speakers (1990 Schmidt). Edward River to Aurukun, Queensland. Australian, Pama-Nyungan, Paman, Middle Pama. Some are bilingual in English. NT 1985. Bible portions 1969-1981.
WIK-NGATHANA [WIG] 126 (1981 Wurm and Hattori). Queensland, Cape York Peninsula, west coast below Aurukun. Australian, Pama-Nyungan, Paman, Middle Pama. Survey needed.
WIKNGENCHERA (NGANDJARA, NANTJARA, NGANTJERI, WIK-NANTJARA, WIK NJINTURA) [WUA] 50 (1970 Oates). Aurukun, Queensland. Australian, Pama-Nyungan, Paman, Middle Pama. All young people speak Wik-Mungkan. All adults bilingual in Wik-Mungkan. Related to Wikngathara (Wikalkan). Nearly extinct.
WILAWILA (WILA-WILA) [WIL] 2 (?) (1981 Wurm and Hattori). Western Australia, central Kimberleys. Australian, Wororan, Ungarinjinic. Nearly extinct.
WIRADHURI (WIRADJURI, BERREMBEEL, WARANDGERI, WEROGERY, WIIRATHERI, WIRA-ATHOREE, WIRADURI, WIRAJEREE, WIRASHURI, WIRATHERI, WIRRACHAREE, WIRAIDYURI, WIRRAI'YARRAI, WOORAGURIE, WORDJERG) [WRH] 3 (?) (1981 Wurm and Hattori). New South Wales, from Murray River to Macquarie River, along Lachlan River from junction with Murrumbidgee River to Parkes. Australian, Pama-Nyungan, Wiradhuric. Nearly extinct.
WIRANGU (NJANGGA, NYANGGA, WARRANGOO, WIRONGU, WIRONGUWONGGA, WIRRUNG, WIRRUNGA) [WIW] 2 (?) (1981 Wurm and Hattori). South Australia, coast between head of Bight and Streaky Bay and inland to Ooldea region. Australian, Pama-Nyungan, South-West, Wati. Nearly extinct.
WORIMI (KATTANG, GADHANG, GADANG) [KDA] Between Hunter and Hastings rivers, from Port Macquarie to Hawkesbury River, New South Wales. Australian, Pama-Nyungan, Yuin-Kuric, Kuri. All speak English. Recently extinct.
WORORA (WORRORRA) [UNP] 20 fluent speakers (1990 Schmidt), 150 second language speakers (1983 R.M.W. Dixon). Derby area, Collier Bay, Western Australia. Australian, Wororan, Wororic. Dialects: WORORA, UNGGUMI. Many are bilingual in English, Aboriginal English, or Kriol. Children may know some of the language. Bible portions 1930-1943.
WULIWULI [WLU] Queensland, southwestern, Dawson River, Baralaba, Banana, Theodore. Australian, Pama-Nyungan, Waka-Kabic, Miyan. Ruhlen says it is extinct.
WULNA [WUX] 1 (1981 Wurm and Hattori). Arnhem Land around Darwin, mouth of Adelaide River and inland. Australian, Laragiyan. Nearly extinct.
WUNAMBAL (UNAMBAL, WUMNABAL, WUNAMBULLU, YEIDJI, YEITHI, JEIDJI, JEITHI) [WUB] 20 (1990 A. Schmidt). Kalumburu, Wyndham and Mowanjum, Western Australia. Australian, Wororan, Wunambalic. Dialects: WUNAMBAL, GAMBERA, MIWA. Different from Kwini. 'Yeidji' means 'talk, speech'. People generally speak Kriol. Children may know some of the language, but most speak Kriol, Aboriginal English or Standard Australian English as mother tongue. Nearly extinct.
YALARNNGA [YLR] Queensland around Burke River and Dajarra. Australian, Pama-Nyungan, Galgadungic. Ruhlen (1987) says it is extinct.
YANDRUWANDHA [YND] 2 (?) (1981 Wurm and Hattori). South Australia around Moomba, and east into Queensland. Australian, Pama-Nyungan, Karnic, Karna. Nearly extinct.
YANGMAN (JUNGMAN) [JNG] 10 fluent speakers, 50 in the ethnic group (1983 Black). Elsey Creek, Northern Territory, and Katherine. Australian, Gunwingguan, Yangmanic, Nolgin. People now speak English or Kriol. Related to Dagoman, which may be extinct. Nearly extinct.
YANKUNTATJARA (YANKUNYTJATJARA, JANGKUNDJARA, KULPANTJA) [KDD] 200 to 300 (1985 Cliff Goddard). Yalata, Musgrave, and Everard Ranges, and the eastern part of Pitjantjatjara freehold lands and surrounding areas, South Australia. Australian, Pama-Nyungan, South-West, Wati. People are bilingual in Pitjantjatjara. Grammar, dictionary.
YANYUWA (YANYULA, JANJULA, ANYULA, WADIRI, YANULA, ANIULA, ANULA, LEEANUWA) [JAO] 70 to 100 (1990 Schmidt). Borroloola, Northern Territory and Doomadgee, Queensland. Australian, Pama-Nyungan, Yanyuwan. All are bilingual in Kriol or English, and some in Garawa. Speakers intermarry with the Garawa or Mara. Wives learn the husband's language, but use their own with members of their own group. Children usually speak the mother's language, but boys at puberty learn and then speak the father's language. Dixon says it is Pama-Nyungan. Typology: SVO. Savannah, scrub forest. Coastal, plains. Hunter-gatherers traditionally. Bible portions 1980.
YAWARAWARGA [YWW] 1 (?) (1981 Wurm and Hattori). South Australia and Queensland, north of Cooper Creek, southeast of Lake Yamma Yamma. Australian, Pama-Nyungan, Karnic, Karna. Nearly extinct.
YAWURU [YWR] Western Australia, coast south of Broome and inland. Australian, Nyulnyulan. Ruhlen (1987) says it is extinct.
YIDINY (IDINJI, BOOLBOORA, DEBA, ENEBY, GERRAH, GIJOW, GILLAH, GUWAMAL, IDIN IDINDJI, IDIN-WUDJAR, INDINDJI, JIDINDJI, KITBA, MAIMBIE, MUNGERA OHALO, PEGULLO-BURA, WARRA-WARRA, WARRYBOORA, WOGGIL, YETINJI, YIDDINJI, YIDIN, YIDINDJI, YITINTYI, YUKKABURRA) [YII] 12 (?) (1981 Wurm and Hattori). Queensland, formerly Atherton region. A few now at Palm Island Babinda, north to Gordonvale. Australian, Pama-Nyungan, Yidinic. Dialects: GUNGGAY, YIDINY, MADYAY. Nearly extinct.
YINDJIBARNDI (JINDJIBANDI) [YIJ] 500 to 600 (1990 Schmidt). Roebourne, Western Australia, surrounding towns and stations. Australian, Pama-Nyungan, South-West, Coastal Ngayarda. Speakers use English or Aboriginal English as second language. Typology: SVO. Desert. Coastal, riverine. Hunter-gatherers, fishermen. Altitude: 0 to 200 meters.
YINDJILANDJI [YIL] 1 (?) (1981 Wurm and Hattori). Northern Territory, northeast of Wonarah. Australian, Pama-Nyungan, Wagaya-Warluwaric, Warluwara-Thawa. Nearly extinct.
YINGGARDA (INGGARDA, INGARA, INGARDA, INGARRA, INGARRAH, INPARRA, JINGGARDA, YINGGARDA, YINGKARTA, KAKARAKALA) [YIA] 5 (1981 Wurm and Hattori). Western Australia, coast at Shark Bay between Gascoyne and Wooramel rivers, inland to Red Hill, West Pilbara. Australian, Pama-Nyungan, South-West, Kardu. Ruhlen (1987) says it is extinct. Related to Malgana which is extinct, Nhanda which is nearly extinct (handful of speakers, Blevins 1995), and Bulinya which may be extinct. Dictionary. Nearly extinct.
YIR YORONT (JIR JORONT, GWANDERA, KOKOMINDJEN, MANDJOEN, MILLERA, MIND'JANA, MUNDJUN, MYUNDUNO) [YIY] 15 fluent speakers, some second language speakers (1991 Bruce Sommer). Queensland, west central Cape York Peninsula, just southeast of Edward River. Australian, Pama-Nyungan, Paman, Western Pama. Dialects: DANGEDL (DHANU'UN, DJUDJAN, DUDJYM), GORMINANG, JIR'JOROND (JIRMEL MEL-JIR, NGAMBA'WANDH, YIRMEL, YIRTANGETTLE, YIRTUTIYM). Most members of the ethnic group speak Torres Strait Creole. Understanding of English is poor. Nearly extinct.
YUGAMBAL (YUGUMBAL, JUGUMBIR, JUKAMBA, MANALDJALI, MINJANBAL) [YUB] Queensland, Logan and Albert river basins from Jimboomba to Macpherson Range. Australian, Pama-Nyungan, Yuin-Kuric, Kuri. Ruhlen (1987) says it is extinct.
Part of the Ethnologue, 13th Edition, Barbara F. Grimes, Editor.
Copyright © 1996, Summer Institute of Linguistics, Inc. All rights reserved.
If you have questions, comments, or updates on the Ethnologue, go to the Feedback page.
[Pacific | Areas | Ethnologue Home | SIL Home]