A bridge between worlds: Ŋalimurr goŋ ga rälmanapanmirr romgu yolŋu ga balanda
Start with the Yolŋu way first. Ŋurruyirr’yundhu Yolŋuwal gakalyu ŋurruŋuny. Language, kinship, country and law gives us the strength. Dhärukthu, gurruṯuy, wäŋay ga romdhu ŋalimurruny ganydjarrnyndja gurrupan.
Our work champions the importance of language and culture in developing self-empowerment for Aboriginal people. We provide a range of platforms to enable Aboriginal voices to be heard, and support Aboriginal communities to become informed about and engage on their own terms with mainstream services and systems.
ARDS has nearly 50 years experience working with Yolŋu communities in Northeast Arnhem Land. Led by Yolŋu leaders from across the region, ARDS’ cross-cultural approach puts Yolŋu perspectives, skills and decision-making at the centre of our work.
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Community development
We enhance communication and understanding between mainstream service providers and Indigenous communities through the development of tailored community information services that are culturally responsive and can be delivered in a range of mediums.
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Language and translation services
We enhance communication and understanding between mainstream service providers and Indigenous communities through the development of tailored community information services that are culturally responsive and can be delivered in a range of mediums.
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Cultural competency training
East Arnhem Land CCT was developed to meet the high demand for accessible, practical and enjoyable training for organisations and individuals working in East Arnhem Land.
Training is available both online and face-to-face.
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Yolŋu radio
It is a priority of ARDS Board that we continue recording and documenting traditional knowledge, stories, songs and ceremonies. We are committed to supporting Aboriginal cultures and languages to remain vibrant and strong.
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Creative media
ARDS are local experts in sound services and productions. We have extensive experience working in partnership with Aboriginal communities and we are an innovative hub for fostering the talent and aspirations of the region and building community capacity in creative industries.
“ARDS’ involvement significantly improved the engagement, capability and ongoing employability of the more than 60 Yolŋu employees involved […] the outcomes achieved with ARDS’ involvement proved that this employment model can be very successful, provided there is culturally appropriate support in the employees’ first language.”
We would like to thank our sponsors for all of their support
