Leaders in literacy, language and learning.
The Living First Language Platform is an initiative by The Australian Literacy & Numeracy Foundation (ALNF). With over 20 years experience, ALNF have developed multiple award-winning literacy programs supporting Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander, refugee and marginalised communities across Australia.
Dedicated to raising language and literacy standards, ALNF’s programs are targeted, specialised and community driven. ALNF believes that literacy is freedom- literacy allows individuals to access education, participate meaningfully in our society and to have a voice. It is a basic human right.
Our Team
Professor Tom Calma AO
Chair and Board
Aboriginal Elder of the Kungarakan people. Co-chair of ALNF. Chancellor, University of Canberra and Professor of Practice, University of Sydney.
Kim Kelly
Co-Founder and Board
Co-Founder and Executive Director of ALNF and Director of Yabayaba Resources.
Mary-Ruth Mendel
Co-Founder and Board
Speech and Language Pathologist specialising in literacy and language learning development and difficulties. Co-Founder of ALNF and Yabayaba Resources.
Mark Macduffie
Chief Technology Officer
Digital and Innovation executive with 25+ years experience of delivery in 5 countries.
Glenise Coulthard
Board
Adnyamathanha woman. Deputy Chair of Ninti One Limited. Founding member of the Iga Warta Cultural Tourism Venture in the Flinders Ranges, SA.
Eric Brace
Executive Director Programs
Director of Programs for ALNF. Education specialist and author of award-winning literacy and education programs.