Mayi Kuwayu Study – research update

First Languages Australia has been working with the Mayi Kuwayu Study Team on a research project looking at links between language use and wellbeing for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander adults.

The Mayi Kuwayu Study is a longitudinal study of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander adults. It collects data to examine the links between culture and wellbeing. The study is taking place in several stages, or 'waves'.

Wave 1 of the Mayi Kuwayu Study happened between 2018 and 2022. It includes over 10,000 participants from more than 150 nation groups. Wave 2 started in 2022 and is still going.  

The Wave 1 Mayi Kuwayu survey asked questions covering different areas, including about speaking and learning language and taking part in language programs.

For the First Languages Australia research project, the Mayi Kuwayu Study Team analysed responses to these language questions. Researchers found taking part in a language program is positively linked with multiple aspects of wellbeing including good to excellent general health; high happiness; high life satisfaction, and cultural connectedness.

To read more about this story, visit our website: Indigenous language activities and wellbeing — First Languages Australia