What is Naarm?

Naarm (or Narrm) is the traditional Indigenous name for the area now known as Melbourne, Australia. It belongs to the language of the Wurundjeri people, part of the Kulin Nation, who have inhabited the region for tens of thousands of years. The name specifically refers to the land surrounding the Yarra River and Port Phillip Bay.

In recent years, there has been a growing movement to use Indigenous place names like Naarm alongside colonial names as a way to acknowledge Aboriginal sovereignty, culture, and enduring connection to Country. This practice aligns with broader efforts toward reconciliation and respect for Australia's First Nations peoples. When referencing Melbourne, using "Naarm" recognizes the deep history and ongoing presence of the Wurundjeri people.

### Key Points:

1. Cultural Significance: Naarm reflects the deep connection of the Wurundjeri and other Kulin peoples to the land, stretching back over 40,000 years before European colonization.

2. Geographic Area: The term refers broadly to the Port Phillip Bay area, including the Melbourne CBD and surrounding regions. The Yarra River, known as Birrarung in Woiwurrung, is a significant landmark within this territory.

3. Modern Usage: While the city’s official name remains Melbourne, Naarm is increasingly used in cultural, artistic, and activist contexts to honor Indigenous heritage. This aligns with broader efforts toward reconciliation and recognition of Australia’s First Nations histories.

4. Dual Naming: Though not an official dual name (unlike Uluru/Ayers Rock), institutions and events often use Naarm to acknowledge Traditional Owners, promoting awareness of Indigenous sovereignty and ongoing custodianship.

### Importance:

Using Naarm is a gesture of respect for the Wurundjeri people’s enduring relationship with the land and a step toward decolonizing place names. It underscores the importance of "Acknowledgement of Country" practices in Australia, which recognize Indigenous custodianship in formal settings.

By learning and using Naarm, individuals contribute to preserving Indigenous languages and cultures, fostering a more inclusive understanding of Australia’s history.