Building a First Nations archivist workforce to drive language and cultural revitalisation

First Nations archives are crucial for language and cultural revitalisation, serving as vital tools for truth telling, healing and reparations for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples. Yet, challenges persist with limited access to materials, support, funding, and adequate training.

Gulwanyang Moran, Birrbay and Dhanggati Manager First Nations Community Access to Archives, Museums of History New South Wales, recognises significant potential in strengthening the First Nations archival workforce in Australia.

“There is a growing awareness of the importance of the role of archival spaces in Australia, especially in revitalising languages and cultures. This includes the role of truth-telling, supported by evidence-based narratives.

“We hold records since 1788, so you can just imagine what is in and the potential of our collections,” says Gulwanyang.

TRAINING OPPORTUNITIES

Training opportunities for First Nations archivists are lacking, and while the BSB30420 Certificate III in Library and Information Services is available, Gulwanyang believes it isn’t fit-for-purpose for archival roles.

"If you've worked in the archives for several years, your experience and knowledge of a collection is often recognised and can lead to higher-level roles. However, training is key to building the profession.

“I would like to see pathways improved and formalised, because people in community don't know these roles exist. People aren’t coming into schools to have a yarn to students about being a First Nations archivist or archival worker. There is potential to be a real leader in the field,” says Gulwanyang.

Kirsten Thorpe (Worimi, Port Stephens), Associate Professor, Jumbunna Institute for Indigenous Education and Research, University of Technology Sydney agrees that clearer training programs and pathways need to be developed.

“There's currently a gap where some staff lack foundational knowledge about archive and record keeping work and its principles, leading to tensions in how First Nations priorities are progressed. It's crucial for First Nations workers to understand the sector so they can shape it to align with community priorities,” says Kirsten.

“At Jumbunna, we focus on providing short courses and training to set a high standard for Indigenous excellence in GLAM [Galleries, Libraries, Archives and Museums] sector roles.

“Our work also addresses the colonial nature of libraries and archives, pushing people to confront uncomfortable truths and support priorities that promote awareness and inclusivity.”

LEADERSHIP SUPPORT

Kirsten highlights that there are limited leadership opportunities for First Nations professionals in the field.

“Organisations often lack robust leadership development programs, especially for entry-level employees, which can lead to challenges with retention.

“We need to be strengthening training and support for existing staff to help retain talent and build a more vibrant workforce.

“It's essential to address the critical levels of Indigenous employment in libraries and archives and involve current staff in shaping training programs to meet their needs and enhance their skills,” adds Kirsten.

FIRST NATIONS ARCHIVIST PATHWAYS

Kirsten notes that Australian Library and Information Association (ALIA) are working to improve career pathways in the sector. This work is highly relevant for archival training and pathways for First Nations archivists.

“Jumbunna have been collaborating with ALIA on their pathways project, which is the first time we've mapped out professional skills together for First Nations priorities. This initiative aims to define foundational skills needed, like understanding the context of operating on Aboriginal land and concepts of Indigenous self-determination.

“We've also looked into the future workforce that contributes to Indigenous-owned and controlled data, information and records contexts. There are significant opportunities in aligning training packages with these priorities, but there's also nuance in addressing trauma-informed work and managing existing collections while preventing similar scenarios in the future.

“We need to be considering what a dynamic First Nations archival workforce would look like, and how we can support community self-determination rather than just fitting people into existing structures,” says Kirsten.