The Free Linguistics Conference (FLC), established in 2007 at the University of Sydney, stands as a unique and vital international forum dedicated to fostering accessible and inclusive discussions across the vast spectrum of language studies. Recognizing the importance of diverse perspectives, FLC provides a welcoming platform for researchers, academics, community linguists, and language enthusiasts of all backgrounds to share their work, exchange ideas, and engage in meaningful dialogue.

At the heart of FLC’s mission is a commitment to linguistic diversity and the empowerment of language communities worldwide. We understand the critical role language plays in cultural preservation, scientific inquiry, and social identity. FLC actively supports inclusive and equitable linguistic research by providing a space for a wide range of voices to be heard and knowledge to be shared. This support extends beyond simply hosting conferences; we strive to facilitate collaboration, promote innovative research, and raise awareness of the challenges and opportunities within the field.

Our flagship activity is the annual international conference, a free event that is hosted in a different location each year. This dynamic model ensures global accessibility and fosters a vibrant, international community of practice. These conferences are hubs of intellectual exchange, featuring presentations, workshops, and networking opportunities that span the many sub-fields of linguistics—from language documentation and educational linguistics to corpus analysis and social semiotics—inspiring new research and collaboration.

Beyond the conferences, FLC is dedicated to creating lasting resources for the global linguistic community. We publish academic materials, including selected papers from our conferences, contributing to the broader body of linguistic knowledge.

Our creative and community-focused outcomes, including children's books and other language resources, are now developed under Lost Words Studio. This initiative is dedicated to producing accessible and engaging materials that spark curiosity about language, culture, and the natural world, supporting our broader mission of language education and advocacy.

In all of our work, the FLC is committed to maintaining a free and open access platform for all who wish to be involved.

To learn more about our upcoming events, initiatives, or how to get involved, please contact us here.