An international team of researchers has determined that the ancestors of modern Australian Aboriginals and Papuans arrived on the ancient Sahul continent from Southeast Asia about 60,000 years ago via two distinct migration routes.

Published in Science Advances, the study was conducted by experts from the Universities of Huddersfield and Southampton, among other research centers. It confirms the long-term chronology of early Homo sapiens settlement in Oceania.

Scientists analyzed approximately 2,500 mitochondrial genomes from contemporary Australian Aboriginals, New Guineans, and populations in the western equatorial-tropical regions of Southeast Asia and the Pacific. Maternal-line DNA allowed researchers to reconstruct genealogical links and estimate the age of ancient lineages.

The results indicate that Australia and New Guinea developed unique genetic lineages around 60,000 years ago. One lineage traveled via northern regions (northern Indonesia and the Philippines) across Sahul, while the other southern route reached the land that would become Australia. At that time, lower sea levels created a continuous landmass connecting Australia and New Guinea. However, crossing straits required advanced seafaring skills.

“Our discovery sheds light on human origins and evolution, maritime migration patterns, and ancient navigation skills. It also highlights the profound legacy of early journeys for local communities in the region,” said Helen Farr, Professor of Maritime Archaeology at the University of Southampton.