Cory Bernardi Draws Criticism for Remarks on Kaurna Language Use

One Nation Candidate Cory Bernardi Criticized for Kaurna Language Remarks

Cory Bernardi, a lead candidate for One Nation in the upcoming South Australian election, has drawn strong criticism from Adelaide's traditional owners for remarks regarding the Kaurna language. His comments, made in social media videos, focused on the use of traditional language on major landmarks.

Bernardi described the presence of Kaurna language as "empty symbolism" and an attempt to "erase our history."

In a video posted in mid-February, Bernardi stood outside Adelaide University, commenting on a banner displaying "Niina Marni," which translates to "are you good?" or "hello, how are you?" in Kaurna. He questioned the placement of such language on university campuses, asserting it held no meaning for people.

A second video, posted on Saturday, showed Bernardi outside the Women’s and Children’s Hospital. He pointed to a sign featuring Kaurna language, mispronounced the words – which translate to "a place of health that cares for women during pregnancy and birthing, babies, children, and young people" – and again questioned the practice. These two videos have collectively garnered over 50,000 likes on Facebook.

Kaurna elders have voiced deep disappointment regarding Bernardi's statements. Lynette Crocker described the videos as "disappointing," emphasizing that "Niina Marni" is a respectful greeting. Jeffrey Newchurch, a Kaurna elder involved in dual naming policies since the early 2000s, stated that such political rhetoric is "damaging" to reconciliation efforts and enables the dissemination of discriminatory views against Aboriginal people and their language.

Political responses to Bernardi's comments include:

• South Australian Government (Labor): Affirmed its focus on fostering an inclusive society.
• Liberal Party Spokesperson for Aboriginal Affairs, Josh Teague: Labeled Bernardi's comments as "grossly offensive" and suggested Bernardi had "misjudged" public opinion. Teague also noted that One Nation's focus seemed to neglect key South Australian issues like affordability and healthcare.

Adelaide University (Tirkangkaku) issued a statement reaffirming its commitment to sharing, honoring, and promoting First Nations languages, culture, and people as an integral part of Australia’s heritage.

In a separate but related political development, state opposition leader Ashton Hurn announced on Saturday that her party would preference One Nation over Labor in all seats in the upcoming election.