Standard English does not acknowledge multiple knowledges or wisdoms, so it is never used in the plural. However, in Indigenous cultures that are diverse, the wisdoms and knowledges can extend across cultures, and are also closely connected to kinship and Country.
The Indigenous Literacy Foundation (ILF) acknowledges Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Peoples and recognises their continuous connections to Country, Community and cultures. We pay our respects to First Nations peoples, their narratives, traditions and practices from time immemorial, and to Elders both past and present. We acknowledge the long lasting strength and resilience of the Peoples that have come before us, and we stand with Elders of all Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Nations. We honour the continued connections between Country, languages, stories and Peoples. We wish to pay our respects to all Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander children, as they will become our future leaders, Elders and Custodians of Country.
In particular, we would like to acknowledge the Gadigal People of the Eora Nation, the Traditional Owners and Custodians of the Lands on which our head office is based in Warrane/Sydney.
The Foundation was established in 2011, having been initially set up in 2003 as the Riverbend Readers’ Challenge, before evolving in 2007 to the Indigenous Literacy Project (ILP) in partnership with the Fred Hollows Foundation. Our Founder, Suzy Wilson, a bookshop owner and former teacher, established ILP and lobbied to gain the support of the Australian Book Industry.
Our ambition is to provide remote Indigenous Communities with the literacy resources they request to support their aspirations for Community and Culture.
Our purpose is to invest in Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Communities to provide the tools and resources they request to shape the direction of their children’s literacy futures. Through collaborative investment in Community and meaningful strategic partnerships, the ILF supports sustainable and positive change in Indigenous literacy through the supply of books and a focus on the publication of First Nations content.
We aim to advocate and build awareness among the wider Australian population of the strengths, knowledges and wisdoms held within remote Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Communities.
Our focus is on building and maintaining relationships with remote Communities. Our Foundation’s values are: DIVERSITY RESPECT TRUST EQUITY
These values underpin how we operate in every aspect of our work.
In 2024 the Indigenous Literacy Foundation found itself thrust into the international spotlight through winning the Astrid Lindgren Memorial Award (ALMA) for our commitment and impact on Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Communities literacy and Languages. This has given the ILF new platforms through which we can champion the literacy aspirations of the Communities that we serve and facilitate new opportunities for Communities to have a voice to shape the futures of their choosing.
The ILF has always celebrated and ensured that Communities and Culture are at the heart of everything we do, that we are Community-led at all levels of our operations and governance – ensuring that the diverse cultures and knowledges are represented. This has become even more important as First Nations Peoples from around the world make contact with the ILF to learn from the Communities and celebrate the work done here in Australia.
The ILF remains committed to staying independent from Government agendas and focused on sourcing ethical and appropriate funding to match the priorities of the Communities that we serve. We remain wholeheartedly committed to our belief that lived experience is the key to identifying the right resources needed to support literacy in Communities. Through listening, we can ensure that all Communities have access to more opportunities – because Reading Opens Doors!
The ILF stands behind the 500+ Indigenous Communities that we serve. Our platforms will always be focused on championing, celebrating and centring their work and vision for the future.
BEN BOWEN, CEO
I would like to thank the growing group of passionate, talented and dedicated staff, Board members, ILF Ambassadors, Community partners, supporters and donors who I have the privilege of working beside each and every day. 2024 has seen the ILF continue on its growth trajectory through expansion in the delivery of our programs, publishing of books and expansion of the number of books published and the number of Communities we support. The ILF has continued to expand into new regions in WA, SA, NSW, NT and QLD, driven through the Book Supply program and increasing awareness and interest in the ILF Community Publishing. The growth in delivery targets is being supported by a growth in revenue, with the ILF raising $7.9 million dollars in the 2024 calendar year.
• Delivered 136,800 culturally relevant books into 495 remote Communities through our Book Supply program
• Published 24 books representing 15 languages through our Community Publishing program
• Ran 2 Create Initiative programs one with Tiwi College, NT and one with Tagai College, Torres Strait Islands
• Ran 1 Pamela Lofts Bequest program with 8 people from remote Northern Territory and Western Australia, aged 18-22, in collaboration with UTS, Adobe and DXC Technology
• Reached over 350,000 people across Australia via the Indigenous Literacy Day live stream
• Became the 2024 Astrid Lindgren Memorial Award Laureate
Winning the Astrid Lindgren Memorial Award in 2024 was the culmination of nearly 2 decades of dedication to the work of Community-led literacy and publishing in Languages. Although no one in the organisation is driven by awards and accolades, it was a humbling experience accepting an award on behalf of so many that have worked tirelessly for the acknowledgement of Indigenous literacy.
Growth in the ILF at both the operations and governance levels has been strategically driven to drive capacity to service the nearly 500 Communities the ILF is now actively engaged with. Through the growth of the ILF in the last few years, 2024 was focused around developing the systems of a larger more sustainable organisation. Firstly, that has meant recruitment of new staff and additional people to the Board, growing it from 6 to 10 members. Secondly, it was about building the right systems and governance practices to ensure the future of the ILF to avoid growing pains and risk any impact on delivery to our Community partners. A focus on Indigenous Governance principles
throughout the organisation matched with operations efficiency and data driven decision making to ensure all of the ILF is focused on the delivery of services and maximising the impact of our work.
At the annual celebration of Indigenous Literacy Day in September, we gathered with over 367,034 viewers on the live stream to showcase Indigenous literacy and the excellence that is at the heart of Communities. This year, for the first time, we showcased 2 Communities, displaying the diversity in culture and language but also showing the unity in vision for the future generations strong in culture, language and literacy. Each year the event grows in reach and impact, now even on an international scale, making it an even stronger platform for Communities to share their stories and celebrate their achievements.
2025 key priorities:
• publish 35 titles
• explore new markets for existing publishing titles
• launch the pilot of our new Talent Pathways program
• launch the ILF’s new website
• roll out renewed ILF brand and merchandise
• grow Book Supply and streamline Book Buzz
• expand current delivery regions and deepen relationships with Communities
• grow the advocacy voice of the ILF to support the vision of Indigenous literacy
It is important to remember the ILF is a unique organisation operating in a diverse environment in 500+ Communities around Australia. With the growth of the ILF in recent years, there are increasing demands on the ILF to do more. The key for the ILF is to not lose focus on where we have the most impact by trying to do everything, and instead make sure to look towards the power of great partnerships and collaboration, which have proven to be a powerful tool over the past few years.
I thank you for all your support over the years. Without your commitment none of what we achieve would be possible. It is with deep gratitude that I acknowledge the position of privilege that the ILF has been allowed to hold in being trusted with the futures of young people and the journey of their literacy.
In my day job as a news presenter, I love sharing great stories especially stories of success and Blak Excellence. And that’s why I’m excited for you to share in the stories contained in this Impact Report, which showcase and celebrate the great work and achievements of the Indigenous Literacy Foundation (ILF) and the individuals and Communities we partner with.
There’s certainly been plenty of great stories to share across the past 12 months. In May 2024, I was deeply honoured to travel to Stockholm, Sweden alongside ILF Founder Suzy Wilson and CEO Ben Bowen as part of an ILF delegation to receive the 2024 Astrid Lindgren Memorial Award (ALMA) for Children’s Literature. This prestigious global award is given annually to a person or organisations for their outstanding contribution to children’s and young adult literature. The ILF was recognised for its entire catalogue of work, and the special relationship with Indigenous Communities that have enabled us to publish over a hundred Community stories and provide books and other literacy resources.
To receive the ALMA (which was presented to us by HRH Princess Victoria of Sweden no less!) is important recognition of the immense value of First Nations languages and storytelling – not just here in Australia, but around the world – and only reinforces the importance of the work the ILF does.
The ALMA and all of the ILF’s other achievements across the past year would simply not have been possible without the strong relationships and backing of Community, the hard work and dedication of our staff, Ambassadors and volunteers and the generous support of our donors.
A big thank you to you all!
Heartfelt thanks too, to our Board of Directors, who volunteer their time and talents to help guide the ILF. In particular, I would like to acknowledge: Hachette Australia and New Zealand CEO, Louise Stark; Language, Cultural advocate and Torres Strait Islander, Leitha Assan; and strategic partnerships and Community engagement specialist, Alicia Stewart, whose board terms came to an end this past year. The ILF family is deeply grateful for your wisdom, strategic direction, leadership and friendship over the past 6 years.
While we fondly farewell Louise, Leitha and Alicia, we are delighted to welcome 3 new Directors: Zenadth Kes (Torres Strait) author, artist and businesswoman, Jillian Bowie; Penguin Random House Australia and New Zealand chief executive, Julie Burland; and Books Kinokuniya merchandise manager, Helene Byfield. Between them, these three talented women bring decades of experience and expertise across publishing, bookselling and First Nations languages to the Board.
We are incredibly proud that 50% of the Directors on our Board are Aboriginal or Torres Strait Islander people. As a Community-led organisation, the ILF is committed to ensuring strong First Nations governance and representation at all levels of the organisation. I am so proud of the environment the ILF has created, which deeply values and celebrates the knowledge, lived experience and Community connections of our staff, Ambassadors and Directors, and which places First Nations families, stories and languages at the heart of everything it does.
Finally, big eso (thank you) to our deadly supporters and partners; First Nations Communities, donors, corporations, and volunteers for your continued support over the years, through the gift of time, resources or donations. The impact the ILF is able to make is only possible because of your generous backing so thank you for placing your trust and belief in the work we do, supporting First Nations Communities across the country achieve their literacy aspirations.
After an incredible year of growth, recognition and achievements in 2024, I just can’t wait to see what the next chapter holds for the ILF!
Mina Big Eso (a very big thank you),
Co-Chair
We are proud to welcome 6 new Directors to the ILF Board in 2024:
Jillian Bowie Samsep and Zagareb neur/woman from the islands of Erub and Mer in the Kemer Kemer Meriam Nation of Zenadth Kes (Torres Strait), author, artist and entrepreneur.
Julie Burland CEO of Penguin Random House Australia and New Zealand.
Helene Byfield Merchandise Manager at Books Kinokuniya.
Nicole Abadee Podcaster, journalist, literary consultant, and festival interviewer.
Amara Barnes Wiradyuri yinaa woman and experienced First Nations communications and engagement specialist.
Thomas Mayo Kaurareg Aboriginal and Kulkalgal, Erubamle Torres Strait Islander man, author, speaker, and advocate for the Uluru Statement from the Heart.
Their diverse backgrounds and expertise will strengthen our mission to support literacy in remote Communities across Australia.
Louise Stark (June 2024)
Leitha Assan (June 2024)
Alicia Stewart
2024)
This year, we recognise Hachette Australia and New Zealand CEO, Louise Stark; Language, Cultural advocate and Torres Strait Islander, Leitha Assan; and strategic partnerships and Community engagement specialist, Alicia Stewart; as their board terms have concluded.
Their invaluable wisdom, leadership and camaraderie over the past 6 years have significantly shaped our organisation.
Worked with 115 playgroups with the Book Buzz early literacy program
250,000
Ran 2 Create Initiative programs from 2 different Communities, 1 with senior students from Tiwi College, NT and 1 with Tagai College, TSI
136,800 115 2 1
Gifted 136,800 culturally relevant books into 495 remote Communities through our Book Supply program
Raised over $250,000 through the ILF’s annual fundraiser Great Book Swap
7.9
Ran 1 Pamela Lofts Bequest program with 8 young people from remote Northern Territory and Western Australia aged 18-22, in collaboration with UTS, Adobe and DXC Technology
Raised $ million for ILF programs
Published 24 books representing 15 languages through our Community Publishing program
24
350,000
Our Board increased to 10 Directors, with 50% being First Nations
705,000 10
Won the Astrid Lindgren Memorial Award with a prize of 5 million Swedish kronor (AUD$705,000)
Reached over 350,000 people across Australia via the Indigenous Literacy Day live stream
We are honoured to have 2 incredible leaders as Co-Patrons to the Foundation.
First Nations languages, songs, and stories are not just words on a page they are the breath of our ancestors, the knowledge of Country, and the voices of all living things. Our languages hold deep connections to the lands, waters, and skies, allowing us to listen to and understand the world around us. They give voice to the rivers, the mountains, the winds, and the many beings that shape our environment. Without these languages, these vital connections risk being silenced. The Indigenous Literacy Foundation (ILF) continues to honour and uphold these ways of knowing, creating spaces where our languages can thrive, be celebrated, and be passed on to future generations in meaningful and contemporary ways.
ILF’s work empowers First Nations Communities to share and strengthen their languages through storytelling. This year, we have seen a growing number of Community members become authors, illustrators, and language custodians, creating books that reflect their cultures, knowledge, and lived experiences. These books are more than stories; they are acts of self-determination, ensuring that the wisdom of our Elders continues to guide our children. The ILF understands that literacy is not just about reading and writing it is about maintaining identity, connection, and the strength to walk confidently in both First Nations and non-Indigenous spaces. Through this work, our young people can hear their languages spoken, see their stories in print, and know that their cultures are alive, valued, and enduring.
As Co-Patron of the ILF, I am deeply proud to see the impact of this work and the strength of our Communities in shaping their own literacy futures. Every book written in a First Nations language is a statement of resilience and continuity, ensuring that our knowledge systems are carried forward with pride. It is an honour to witness the Foundation’s growth and to see our young people stand strong in their identities, knowing their languages and stories will continue to echo through generations.
I’m enormously proud to be Co-Patron of the ILF. It makes my heart sing, the way that, year after year, this brilliant organisation achieves more and more to enrich and enhance the most important things in the lives of kids in remote Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Communities; books, learning, reading, language, education, participation, resources, workshops and programs. Every year the outcomes are measured, and the hard work, creativity, commitment and dedication of all the marvellous people who work for the ILF shines.
I love the way the ILF explains that literacy is “a navigation skill, it gives kids the ability to navigate the world around them”.
I know the year ahead is going to be great. We must push on with our advocacy among the wider population to strengthen the knowledge and wisdom held within Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Communities.
The year 2024 was a remarkable one for the Indigenous Literacy Foundation. We were the recipient of the Astrid Lindgren Memorial Award, which brought moments of reflection and deep thinking about the core purpose of this organisation: literacy.
At the ILF, our clear vision has always been that Reading Opens Doors. It is a powerful statement, affirming that reading is the foundational skill on which future learning is based. It is a fundamental human right.
I love the words the Swedish jury wrote about the ILF:
“With curiosity and respect, the Indigenous Literacy Foundation works with reading and storytelling among First Nations children in Australia. In close collaboration with Communities, they highlight the value of all people’s own languages and stories. By spreading books and stimulating reading, storytelling and creativity, Indigenous Literacy Foundation builds the desire to read and fosters pride, self-confidence and a sense of belonging. Every child has the right to their language and their stories.”
The ILF is served by a dedicated and skilled team. Further to their efforts are the generous spirits of the many people who make up the ILF collective, our patrons, Board members, Ambassadors and all volunteers, who have given their time, energy, knowledge and vast skills to the ILF. To all of them, I give my most sincere thanks. None of the ILF’s work and achievements would be possible without you.
While our Ambassadors support key celebrations such as NAIDOC and Indigenous Literacy Day, many also show their support at virtual events, fundraisers, with media and PR opportunities and supporting publishing projects in remote Communities.
It is our great fortune to have Ambassadors who possess remarkable skills, unwavering dedication, and a strong drive to contribute their time and expertise towards the Indigenous Literacy Foundation across the country.
We thank each and every Ambassador for sharing the ILF’s vision and continuing to give their time and talents so generously to share our story.
495 Communities with Book Supply available, 115 sites with Book Buzz available, 158 titles published, refelcting 41 Indigenous languages.
The ILF team has experienced immense growth in 2024 to keep up with the growing demand for our programs. We welcomed 6 new staff members to the Marketing, Programs, Publishing and Admin teams. We also bid farewell and thanks to departing staff, Ellie Arrigo, Laura Atherden, Leila Hosseini and Asal Tabee. Your incredible hard work and contributions to our work have been invaluable over the years.
Fernanda Faustino
Fernanda’s a social media marketing expert with a background in influencer marketing, production, account management, and marketing strategy. Her love for storytelling, photography and connecting with people naturally led her to focus on social media. Fernanda has always been passionate about working with nonprofits, so being part of the ILF and helping spread the word about the incredible work we do is truly rewarding to her.
“One of the best parts of living abroad for 11 years is the chance to embrace different cultures while always keeping my own close. Now, working for an organisation that supports Communities in telling their own stories, in their own languages, feels like coming full circle—it’s about honouring identity, connection, and the power of storytelling. It’s something I deeply value and believe is so important in today’s world and in my life.”
Rachael Bailey
Growing up in the bush, Rachael has always revered the inextricable connections of people and Country. With a background in nature conservation, communications and media, she’s passionate about amplifying First Nations voices and stories.
“Books are a portal to faraway places, sparking imagination, humour and empathy they’re constant companions and give us ways of understanding life. I love seeing so many colourful new books being created by Communities, and I’m keen to support ILF’s important work in ensuring First Nations children have more stories reflecting their own lives, dreams and cultures.”
Sharon Burns
In May 2024, Sharon Naparulla Burns joined the ILF team as a Regional Programs Coordinator. Sharon is a bilingual speaker from Central Australia, with background in working extensively in remote Communities in the Top End region and central Australia. She is a strong advocate in keeping language and culture strong for the younger generation.
“I love working with ILF and helping Communities in getting their stories being written on books for the future younger generations. It is important to keep languages strong for the next generation.”
Samantha Mansell
In June 2024, Samantha Mansell joined the ILF as Publishing Project Editor. She came to us after 5 years of publishing experience at Allen & Unwin, where she worked across a wide range of books in both the publishing and editorial teams. She was also one of the initiators of their Diversity & Inclusion Committee. She couldn’t be more excited about her future creating books that champion First Languages, written by First Nations Communities.
“Working for the ILF has been a dream come true! Being Community-led rather than commercially focused is the future of successful, diverse publishing. I feel so fortunate to be a part of the important work the ILF does.”
Rosa Mazzapica
Rosa joined the team in February 2024 as Office Manager (maternity cover) and is excited to be moving to the Fundraising team in May 2025.
Over the past decade she worked in corporate and NFP Indigenous owned organisations, with roles that spanned across operations, project management and fundraising. She feels privileged to be a part of a company whose aim is to celebrate the strengths, knowledges and values of our First Nations Peoples across the country.
Rosa is originally from Italy and she holds a Masters Degree in Business and Marketing Communication (Università degli Studi di Milano).
“Reading stories to my child in Italian has increased my awareness of the importance of accessing books and resources in our own language whilst growing up – this is why I am so thrilled to have joined the ILF and to be a part of the team that together has delivered almost 1 million books to remote Communities.”
Joanne Wise
Jo’s journey started at ILF as a temporary position in June 2024 and was then offered a permanent role as Accountant in October 2024.
For over 20 years, Jo has had a passion for numbers and bookkeeping, but she also loves to help businesses streamline their processes and create efficient systems. She has extensive experience working within multiple industries, from small to medium size businesses, as well as running her own small bookkeeping company Beaches Books2BAS. Jo has started a perfect time as there are systems changes happening in 2025 in which she very excited to be a part of.
“I am feeling extremely lucky to be given the opportunity to work in a business that truly cares about what they do.”
The support of our volunteers means the world to us. It’s not just about fundraising, but about the deep, heartfelt connection they share with our work by donating their precious time. 37 people braved the cold and strong winds in September to run a drinks station at the Sydney Marathon, 10 helped with the fun we had at STRYDE4 in October and 295 volunteers wrapped countless gifts at Kinokuniya Books, filling the festive season with joy. Our Marketing team is also extremely grateful to the regular volunteers that support us in advocacy and awareness work. We are profoundly grateful to every one of them.
• Ella Schofield was Marketing & Communications Coordinator, now Senior Marketing & Communications Lead
• Ellie Arrigo
• Laura Atherden
• Leila Hosseini
• Asal Tabee
The ILF
and activities will enable us
The ILF invests in all Community stakeholders, from the youth to parents and guardians, Elders and support services. Through our 3 key programs, Book Supply, Book Buzz and Community Publishing, we work at different levels of engagement to ensure Communites have access to culturally relevant resources, and are engaged and leading the direction and scope of the programs. With our donors and key stakeholders we ensure our resources are focused on Community strength and respect, ensuring people have the confidence to take on opportunities, and remain in control of their stories, languages, and children’s futures.
“It’s inspiring to see programs like Book Supply and Book Buzz continue to grow, reaching more Communities and supplying more books each year. We are proud to support the ILF and look forward to continuing this vital work of supporting reading, language and storytelling.”
ROBYN HUPPERT, COMMUNICATIONS MANAGER BOOKPEOPLE
Australia Post is committed to building stronger and more connected communities throughout Australia and understands the vital role of literacy in connecting people. That’s why Australia Post leverages its vast network to distribute free Book Supply and Book Buzz resources to First Nations children in remote Communities in partnership with the ILF.
The partnership forms part of Australia Post’s commitment to Indigenous literacy outcomes through its Reconciliation Action Plan.
The delivery of
Delivering a major milestone
Book Supply provides access to culturally relevant books to 495 remote Communities.
In 2024, Australia Post and the ILF celebrated the delivery of the 500,000th Book Supply book delivered since the partnership began in 2020.
“We’re extremely proud of our longstanding partnership with the Indigenous Literacy Foundation, supporting the delivery of essential educational resources to First Nations Communities and schools through the Book Supply program. By leveraging our delivery network, culturally appropriate books reach children in remote Communities, helping to foster literacy and a sense of connection to language,”
PAUL GRAHAM, AUSTRALIA POST CEO AND MANAGING DIRECTOR
The 500,000th book, Moli bin git stak, travelled thousands of kilometres from ILF’s warehouse in Melbourne to reach Cunnamulla Library in Southwest Queensland.
Book Buzz supports over one hundred playgroups throughout Australia each year, enabling children to develop crucial pre-literacy skills. With Australia Post’s support, the program delivers Book Buzz packs that give children access to board books, picture books, and tactile books and resources, laying the foundation for an interest in reading, and giving children the experience of being able to follow stories from beginning to end with families.
Australia Post also proudly supports the Create Initiative, which provides students from remote Communities the opportunity to visit Sydney to illustrate, write, and create a book on a topic of their choice. With the guidance of ILF Ambassadors and mentors, students spend a week in Sydney developing stories based on their lived experiences. These stories are shared with other Communities, fostering a sense of belonging, understanding, and relevance for readers. Students return home with newfound confidence, maturity, and aspirations for growth and development.
This year, Australia Post supported two ILF Create Initiatives:
• Students from Tagai College visited Sydney in June for the College’s first Create experience. The resulting book, Sika and the Shell, narrates the story of cousins attending their first school camp on Muralag, and caring for Country.
• Tiwi College students travelled to Sydney to develop Tiwi Girl Hunters, Apikirayiwi, the second book in the Tiwi Girl Hunters series that details the adventures of 2 Tiwi girls on hunting expeditions.
100% of participating students who completed post event surveys in 2024 reported having improved self-confidence and confidence in their storytelling capabilities.
In 2024, Australia Post raised a total of $13,511.34 to support the Book Supply program through various channels, including over-the-counter donations, in-store RoundUp transactions, online store donations, and through the sale of ILF tote bags. A portion of the proceeds from the 5,876 tote bags sold was donated to ILF.
The tote bag featured Kathy Arbon’s artwork, originally created for the book Can You Dance
Australia Post highlights ILF’s important work through its annual advertising campaign that features ILF Ambassador Shelley Ware. This year, the campaign was promoted across multiple media platforms, including radio and online channels, raising awareness in the lead up to and during NAIDOC week.
Five V Capital and the PNI Foundation have been proud partners of the ILF since 2023. They believe in the power of the ILF programs in remote Australia and are committed to supporting the ILF’s impact.
“We have been particularly honoured to play a small part in the journey of two books as part of the Community Publishing program: a book of poems in language from students at Vincentia High School, and most recently a collection of stories sharing what home means to students from Ḏawurr Boarding House in Nhulunbuy. These books help to preserve and celebrate language and share the diverse cultures of our country. It is a privilege to support them.”
The First Sentier Foundation has expressed their pride in being a supporter of the ILF and our Community-led initiatives. First Sentier believes in the values of celebrating First Nations Peoples’ languages, stories and connections to Community and place.
“Our partnership aligns with our commitment to supporting education for all, in this case by ensuring children in remote Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Communities have the opportunity to thrive and succeed in their educational journey through culturally relevant books and resources.”
Together, our partnership harnesses our combined creativity to develop engaging and impactful campaigns. Mindshare has raised close to $9k to support our programs, thanks to initiatives like Mindshare Impact Day. They have also provided access to volunteering initiatives, and host a yearly Great Book Swap. They have also provided $2,022,924 in pro bono advertising in 2024 to drive awareness of the Busking For Change initiative.
“These efforts reflect our deep commitment to fostering education and opportunity for all. And we’re not stopping here — 2025 holds even bigger plans as we aim to raise even more awareness and support for this meaningful cause.”
We held 2 unforgettable Trivia Nights in Sydney and Melbourne in 2024. Sydney saw the amazing Bianca Hunt take the reins as host for the first time in July, while Melbourne’s trivia fans were treated to another round of hilarity with the one and only Brian Nankervis in December.
Nearly 600 trivia lovers joined us, raising an incredible $40,000, all while sharing endless laughs, friendly competition, and some seriously silly moments! We can’t wait to crank up the fun even more in 2025 with 2 more great events!
In 2024, the ILF won the Astrid Lindgren Memorial Award (ALMA). This global award is presented by the Swedish government each year, to an author, illustrator or literacy organisation that has made an outstanding contribution to children’s and young adult literature. As well as international recognition, the award comes with a prize of 5 million Swedish kronor (AUD$705,000).
The award recognises the value of the ILF’s literacy work in Australian Indigenous Communities. The funds will be used to support ongoing investment into Community literacy projects and aspirations.
Most importantly, this award could not have come about without the extraordinary work of many of Australia’s remote Indigenous Communities, who trust the ILF with the stories they choose to tell, told in multiple languages and illustrated in Community.
In May 2024, ILF co-chair Natalie Ahmat, CEO Ben Bowen and Founder Suzy Wilson travelled to Stockholm for the presentation of the award by Victoria, Crown Princess of Sweden. The trip included visits to sites from Astrid Lindgren’s life and meetings with her family, conversations with Swedish literature and cultural organisations. The ILF was also privileged to journey to far north town of Jokkmokk, where the team spent time in a cultural exchange with Sámi Peoples, learning from their experiences publishing in language and preserving their rich cultural heritage.
In September, the ILF was invited to attend the Gothenburg Book Fair as guests of ALMA. Head of Programs, Zoe Cassim, Programs Manager, Tictac Moore and Head of Publishing, Nicola Robinson spoke about the work of the ILF on several panel sessions, as well as meeting with Sámi writers, performers and activists.
Indigenous Literacy Day (ILD) is a marquee event for the ILF, attracting significant awareness and support for our work with remote Communities.
celebration was Livestreamed from Tubowgule where Sydney Opera House stands on Gadigal Country overlooking Sydney Harbour.
The event was an action-packed, joyful performance; sharing stories, music, song, skits, dancing, movement and languages.
THEME: Be a Proud Voice for Country
VENUE: Concert Hall Northern Foyer, Sydney Opera House
LIVE AUDIENCE: 250 Community members, students, ILF Ambassadors, Board members, VIP corporates, special guests, ILF staff and volunteers
LIVESTREAM: 367,034 viewers across Australia free online event on demand until August 2025.
‘...it was live for all to watch together as a nation.’
Our 3 bilingual books launched on the day, Yaltji Ngayuku Papa?, ngayawanj bagannggul, ngayawanj barra barra-nggul, and bagan, barra barra, mirriwarr
• For the first time, 2 Communities Tjuntjuntjara, WA and Vincentia, NSW joined celebrations in Sydney; launching their 3 bilingual books.
• Achieved our largest viewing audience to date: 367,034 viewers; an uplift of 52,034 or 17% from 315,000 in 2023.
• Celebrated ILD with a theme: Be A Proud Voice for Country and created a Film and Live Event through this lens.
• Produced a Film of 19 minutes, shot across 3 diverse Communities
• Vincentia section of our Film featured at the Shoalhaven First Nations Film Festival
• Worked with King Stingray to gain rights to use their hit song Milkumana in all ILD celebrations.
On ILD, audiences entered the iconic Sydney Opera House for a 1 hour LIVESTREAM celebration of storytelling and song with ILF Ambassadors and superstars.
This year’s lineup included:
• Aunty Deb’s Welcome to Country
• Bianca Hunt exuberantly hosting ILD
• Gregg Dreise and Andy Griffiths introducing Tjuntjuntjara school with their quest to find Tjanpi the lost dog leaping from the pages of their book
• Tjuntjuntjara Community book launch and readings
• Vincentia Community 2 book launches, music and dancing
• Jessica Mauboy performing her song Give You Love
• Justine Clarke and Josh Pyke performing this year’s Busking For Change song in a grand finale welcoming Jess Mauboy back on to stage.
• Closing ILD with an all-in celebration with Milkumana.
‘I enjoyed the voices of the young people – young writers and dancers –and the range of people presenting.’
“The ILF is having a measurable impact in remote Communities, supporting storytelling in First Languages and reading in First Languages and English. Community-led, the programs are continually reviewed and tweaked to deliver the best outcomes for Community. More broadly, through the ILF’s partnerships with Australian publishers, the industry is learning to better support Indigenous creative process and increase the number of books by First Nations creators in bookshops around the country. Impressive.”
LOUISE STARK CEO HACHETTE
Busking for Change is an exciting fundraiser designed for students. Learn a song in an Aboriginal Language, celebrate the Decade of Indigenous Languages and raise funds for the Indigenous Literacy Foundation to support more remote Communities access and create books and songs in their First Languages.
2024 was the second year of Busking for primary schools, high schools, and Early Learning Centres across Australia. Thousands of students across the country learnt Shordi Krik, a book and song written by Barunga Remote Community School and ILF Ambassador Justine Clarke, in both English and Kriol.
Through the involvement of 59 active schools, we raised $31,477 for our 2025 programs. We had prizes donated to us from Australia Post, Blundstone Australia, and publishers Bloomsbury, Harper Collins, Allen & Unwin, and Walker Books. Thanks to this, we were able to ship boxes of beautiful books, tote bags, and Blundstone vouchers to top performing schools Yeo Park Infants School, Wahroonga Preparatory School, Moorooduc Primary School, Criagie Heights Primary School, and Styles Street Children’s Community Long Day Care.
This fundraising campaign celebrates Aboriginal First Languages and teaches children nationally about the lives and experiences of children in remote Communities. It creates an appreciation for Aboriginal cultures and languages, and celebrates the achievements of Barunga School in creating their book and song, Shordi Krik
“This experience has been incredibly rewarding, offering valuable learning opportunities for the children. Through their engagement with Shordi Krik, they have learned a beautiful song, improved their visual literacy, deepened their connection to the Styles Street community, and gained a better understanding of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander relationships with Country. They also developed a growing appreciation for our First Nations linguistic diversity.”
STYLES STREET CHILDREN’S COMMUNITY LONG DAY CARE EDUCATOR
The Great Book Swap returned with a new and exciting look in 2024 with 4 new animal Language Houses; Bigibigi House, Marntuwunyini House, Yari House and Girrganyi House. 748 schools, universities, libraries, individuals and organisations swapped their favourite book in exchange for a donation and raised an incredible amount of over $272,000!
The launch was held at SEA LIFE Sydney Aquarium where over 80 First Nations primary students from 5 Sydney schools participated in a Great Book Swap with ILF Ambassador Andy Griffiths and learnt about Pig, the dugong that lives at SEA LIFE Sydney Aquarium.
Schools that registered, hosted and submitted their funds by the end of June 2024 automatically went into the draw to win the early bird prize draw an ILF Book Pack consisting of ten different titles.
For the first year ever, schools that registered, hosted and submitted their funds by 1 November 2024 also automatically won a virtual visit with ILF Lifetime Ambassador Andy Griffiths which was hosted by the ILF through Youtube on 29 November 2024.
Funds raised by Great Book Swaps support the ILF in gifting culturally relevant books to children and families in remote Communities.
A heartfelt thank you to all the 2024 Great Book Swap hosts and participants.
Access to books in remote Communities is challenging, as there are often no libraries or bookstores. ILF’s Book Supply program meets this need by providing new, culturally relevant books to remote Communities across Australia. Schools, Community, health, and women’s centres working in remote Communities, can order books to distribute to children and families.
136,800
Total book packs
4,100
Book packs distributed by age group
1,100 Toddlers packs
1,100 Kids packs
1000 Big Kids packs
900 Community packs
FEBRUARY
• Ordering page updated with 2024 catalogues and images
• 4,100 packs delivered to warehouse to await orders
MARCH
• 3,050 first release packs made available for ordering
• Invitation to order email sent to over 1,800 remote Community contacts
• Orders for first release of packs start arriving
APRIL
• First release packs start being dispatched from the warehouse
• First release packs start arriving in Community
JUNE
• Publishers invited to submit books for 2025 pack consideration
• Over 1,200 books from 49 publishers are received for 2025 pack consideration
• Final orders for first release packs processed (441 orders, 3,027 packs, 100,980 books, 457 Communities)
JULY
• Selection Panel meet to short-list books for the 2025 packs
AUGUST
• 1,050 second release packs made available for ordering
• Invitation to order email sent to over 1,800 remote Community contacts
• 145 titles from 27 publishers selected for 2025 packs
• Orders for second release of packs start arriving
SEPTEMBER
• Purchase order placed with publishers for 148,300 books for 2025 packs
• Second release packs start being dispatched from the warehouse
OCTOBER
• Second release packs start arriving in Community
NOVEMBER
• Books for 2025 packs begin arriving at warehouse
DECEMBER
• Final orders for second release packs processed (215 orders, 1,073 packs, 35,820 books, 333 Communities)
• Collateral (postcards, labels, posters) for 2025 packs ordered
“Since 2007, our partnership with the ILF has been one that Penguin Random House employees are incredibly honoured to be a part of. Over the years, we have collaborated on various impactful projects, from mentorship programs to translating beloved stories into First Languages. Most recently, we were thrilled to host students from Thursday Island at our PRH office, where they created their own book, Sika and the Shell. With a shared dedication to representation, literacy, and the belief that reading opens doors, we are proud to support the ILF’s programs. We look forward to another year of exciting projects and even more opportunities to raise funds and awareness for the incredible work that the ILF is doing.”
JULIE BURLAND, CEO PENGUIN RANDOM HOUSE
be part of the adventure learning future creation
Song fun culture language
Story
Playgroup breakdown:
NT = 68
WA = 27
SA = 11
QLD = 7
NSW = 2
Total participants
4,183
2024 saw us maintain 115 Book Buzz sites and the official release of our new Resource Kit Can You Dance? themed around the book of the same title. The intention for Book Buzz is to continue supporting the intergenerational joy of reading, and the discovery of reading for babies and their families.
In October, our Community Publishing team hopped over to Port Lincoln, SA for the launch of Where’s my Minya Marlu? by Mia Speed. Mia is a Wirangu woman from Port Lincoln, currently studying at the University of SA in Adelaide. This is her first book.
Where’s my Minya Marlu? is about a mother marlu (kangaroo), who is looking for her minya marlu (little kangaroo/joey). The bilingual book features English along with Wirangu words.
The launch was held at Lincoln Gardens Primary School in Port Lincoln, the author’s former primary school. The festivities involved pastel cupcakes, speeches and an author talk, and was attended by ILF lifetime Ambassador, Yankunytjatjara and Wirangu woman Shelley Ware and Wirangu artist Susan Betts, who led workshops in Ceduna with the ILF earlier in the year.
In June, everyone’s favourite bigibigi made an appearance at the launch of Moli bin git stak, the second book from author Karen Manbulloo. Written in both English and Kriol, Moli’s new adventure showcases Community life in the NT and all the mischief a Weet-Bix loving pig can get up to.
The author said this of her new book, “It’s really important to me to share the Kriol language to help our Indigenous children. It’s really important for our little ones and when they get older, they might, you know, do something like write a book too.”
Cindy Manfong, ILF Publishing Project Editor recounts the launch:
“The launch of Moli bin git stak was held in Kalano Community, where the real Moli currently lives. This is Karen Manbulloo’s second book and also another hit for not just people in Community, but for everyone around the country.
I was born and grew up in Katherine (outside of Kalano Community) and have so many connections around the area, so working for the ILF and being a part of the workshops was very special for me. I loved hearing about the Binjari women writing stories in Kriol and then I was lucky enough to go back to my hometown to help the women create their illustrations with the help of artist Julie Haysom and linguist Denise Angelo.
Denise, Julie, Karen and I were the illustrators for Moli bin git stak, as we wanted to try to see it the same as the first one. While working with Karen on both Moli books, I have learnt so much as an individual and it makes me so proud to see the older generation producing books in their First Language for the younger generations to have as a resource and also for them to read so they feel connected to it. I really hope books like Moli can inspire the next generation coming through, as it’s inspired me.”
This year saw the Community Publishing team travel all over for workshops in Communities such as Bunbury in Western Australia and Wujal Wujal in Far North Queensland.
In March, a workshop was held in Bunbury with the Wardandi Miya-k Kaadadjiny Aboriginal Corporation, facilitated by artist Pauline Bonney. ILF Regional Coordinator, Josie Lardy, said this of the workshop:
“Pauline introduced them to water colours and drawing styles t hey felt comfortable to do, giving tips on how to make ‘em look more deadly.
They loved her coming in and boosting their confidence in the drawing area. This is a nice simple way to introduce them to book making.
Charmaine Councillor, who I met at Pullima a couple of years ago, reached out last year and said this project is to put their Elders’ language lessons of Noongar into a book form for their grandchildren and the wider Community. They are relearning the language they lost and sharing what they are learning.”
In December, we returned to Wujal Wujal to continue workshops started in 2023, before the Community was devastated by Cyclone Jasper. The workshop was facilitated by author Lystra Rose and illustrator Charmaine Ledden-Lewis, who said this of the experience:
“There is a certain type of magic and generosity that imbues the collective effort with the making of a book, in that it starts with a desire to share an idea or an experience beyond one’s mind. Journeying to Wujal Wujal was this type of magic, in its purest form. By offering some technical guidance and encouragement, I experienced the realisation of creativity in women who had otherwise never dared believe they were artists, but found this to be a truth of themselves at the end of our time together. The ILF holds space for this magic.”
We were honoured that NT Mob Sharing Stories was included in the 2024 White Ravens List for International Youth Literature.
“This publication confirms how important the work is that the Indigenous Literacy Foundation in Australia, ALMA winner 2024, is doing for First Nations Communities and the celebration of Indigenous languages.”
WHITE RAVENS CATALOGUE 2024
The Translation Project continues to bring familiar children’s stories in First Languages to Communities. In 2024, we saw the publication of 10 new titles in 8 languages, including 2 new languages (Wakka Wakka and Wik Mungkan).
Pamela Lofts saw 8 participants, representing 5 Communities, come together in Sydney for a week-long workshop in August. Partnering with DXC, UTS, our graphic designer and illustrator Lee Burgemeestre and Adobe, participants designed a digital presentation or story that was shared with the group on a 360 degree screen.
It was wonderful to see the group and our partners work together to grow skills and experiences in visual design and storytelling. Illustrator Pamela Lofts would be proud.
In 2024 we ran 2 Create Initiative programs for the first time ever.
In June, Tagai College in the Torres Strait became our second Community to be involved with the Create Initiative program. Eight students made the long journey from Far North Queensland to Sydney to work with publisher Penguin Random House and mentors Ryhia Dank (Nardurna) and David Lawrence to write and illustrate their own book Sika and the Shell
In November, Tiwi College returned to Sydney to write and illustrate their 10th book, with the help of Hachette Publishers and ILF Ambassadors Shelley Ware and David Lawrence, as part of the Create Program. Tiwi Girl Hunters: Apikirayiwi is the sequel to 2023’s book Tiwi Girl Hunters
thank you
We are very grateful for the trust that has been established over the years with the remote Communities we support and their willingness to engage wholeheartedly with our team. We are honoured and humbled to be able to assist and support their literacy journeys, in ways they wish. To our corporate partners and sponsors, individual donors, Trusts and Foundations, other not-for-profit organisations and volunteers that continue to stand by our side, we could not do this without you.
Thank you
ABC TV
Abco Products
Bain & Company
Colin Biggers & Paisley
David & Miriam Sitsky Foundation
envato Foundation
Five V Capital
Freshwater Farm Australia
Grace Worldwide (Australia) Pty Ltd
Hachette Australia
SUPPORTERS
ACME Foundation
Allura Partners
ARA Corporate Services
ARA Group Endowment
Ball Family
Biblio
Blundstone Australia Pty Ltd
Brent & Vicky Emmett Giving Fund
Donnelly Garner Foundation
Elizabeth & Barry Davies Charitable Foundation
Emu Trekkers Ltd
Fairview Endowment
First Sentier Investors
Harry Kestin Foundation
Henson Foundation
Ian and Alison McKenzie Family Foundation
John & Myriam Wylie Foundation
Jon & Jon Medical Consulting
Lanluas Consulting
Libraries Board of South Australia
MFS International Australia Pty Ltd
MRI Software
Mutual Trust Foundation
Network Ten
Omni Executive Pty Ltd
Oracle
Oz Lit Teacher
QBE
Quinn Femelle Private Ancillary Fund
Rado Foundation
RELX Cares
Simpsons Solicitors
Sisyphus Foundation
SMEC
Sydney Opera House
The Pinshaw Family Foundation
Theiss Pty Ltd
UBS Optimus Foundation
Wotton Kearney
Wyndham Destinations
BOOKSTORES
Avid Reader
Beaufort Street Books
Berkelouw Bookstores
Johnston Foundation
Lendlease Investment Management
Mindshare
Mitsubishi Corporation
Pan Macmillan
Penguin Random House
PNI Foundation
The Tar-Ra Fund
UnLtd
Books Kinokuniya
Collins Booksellers
Constant Reader
Dymocks Melbourne
Fullers Bookshop
Gleebooks
Harry Hartog Bookstores
Matilda Bookshop
Potts Point Bookshop
Readings Bookstores
Riverbend Books
UNSW Bookshop
Where the Wild Things Are Bookshop
AUSTRALIA BOOK INDUSTRY
Allen & Unwin
ALS Library Services
Australian Publishers Association
Australian Society of Authors
Australian Library and Information Association
Better Reading
Blackbooks
Bloomsbury Publishing
Boolarong Press
BookPeople
Budburra Books
Child’s Play
Children’s Ground
Children’s Book Council of Australia
CSIRO Publishing
Fremantle Press
Gestalt Publishing
Larrikin House
Lonely Planet
NewSouth Books
Rockpool Publishing
Romance Writer’s Festival
Simon & Schuster Australia
Splitting Image
The Australian Business Book Awards
The Disney Company and Paragon Books
UQP
Walker Books Australia
Wild Dog Books
Wiley
The ILF was delighted to have been chosen by professional cyclist, Lachlan Morton, to be the beneficiary of the funds raised as he attempted his Lap of Australia. Lachy covered 14,210 km in a world record time of 30 days 9 hours and 59 minutes – an amazing achievement. To achieve this record he cycled an average of over 470 kilometres per day!
Lachlan’s raised over $145,000 – or the equivalent of 14,500 culturally relevant books for remote Communities around the country.
“I am in a unique position where I have an audience that follows me in these challenges. The cycling community is incredibly generous, so to leverage those things for causes tied to what I am doing is amazing. It’s important for me to give back. It enriches my pursuit.”
LACHLAN MORTON, EF PRO CYCLING
This year, the Indigenous Literacy Foundation team embarked on an unforgettable experience walking along Sydney’s iconic coastline, in collaboration with STRYDE4 Day. In a new initiative, STRYDE4 Day is a fundraising walk like no other. With the option to walk 10km or 21km, we set out from Bondi, raising money to publish another bilingual book.
With over 50 ILF supporters immersing themselves in the fun and energy of the STRYDE4 Activation Zones, we took on exciting challenges, entertainment and surprises that kept everyone motivated every step of the way. Together with our supporters, volunteers and event sponsor Freshwater Farm we raised an incredible $21,000.
We are excited to grow this event in 2025!
“Copyright Agency plays a significant part in protecting, and developing, Australia’s thriving creative and cultural industry. To do so, however, we need partnerships like the one we treasure with the Indigenous Literacy Foundation. The cultural industry cannot thrive unless everyone is given opportunities to read and publish their own stories. The work the ILF does helps this happen, and we are delighted to support them.”
JOSEPHINE JOHNSTON , CEO COPYRIGHT AGENCY
INDIGENOUS LITERACY FOUNDATION LTD
ABN: 45 146 631 843
The ILF is an independent charity with DGR Status. We raise all our income independently, without government support. In the past 14 years we have raised over $40 million to support our programs. Using best practice guidelines for charities, the majority of funding received was spent on the delivery of programs. In 2025 our target is $7.2 million.
For the year ending 31 December 2024
INCOME STREAMS EXCLUDING DONATIONS
DONATIONS BY SOURCE
Jawoyn, Dagoman, and Wardaman Country
Joseph Mayers, Lisa Pilbeam, Tiffany Parker, Justine Taylor
Wayne Quilliam, Community members and ILF supporters ILLUSTRATIONS
Moon Story, Where’s my Dog?, Where’s my Minya Marlu? ngayawanj bagan-nggul, ngayawanj barra barra-nggul Manyi Nganyjaali and Shining Little Star
Thank you for helping us to share our story. Copyright © Indigenous Literacy Foundation, 2024
