Modern humans reached Australia and New Guinea roughly 60,000 years ago, according to a major study published in Science Advances. The findings provide the strongest evidence yet for the "long chronology" of human migration, settling a long-standing debate among archaeologists and geneticists.
Researchers from the University of Huddersfield and the University of Southampton analyzed nearly 2,500 mitochondrial DNA (mtDNA) genomes. By tracing maternal lineages, the team mapped the movement of early humans into Sahul, the single landmass that connected Australia and New Guinea during the last Ice Age.
Mapping the ancient migration
The study utilized the molecular clock—a method of tracking genetic mutations over generations—to determine when the oldest lineages diverged. The data points to an arrival date of 60,000 years ago, pushing back against theories suggesting a later arrival between 45,000 and 50,000 years ago.
Maternal DNA evidence also reveals that these early explorers did not travel as a single group from one location. Instead, the lineages trace back to diverse areas, including northern Indonesia, the Philippines, Malaysia, and Indochina. This suggests that humans utilized at least two different seafaring routes to reach the continent simultaneously.
"We feel that this is strong support for the long chronology," said Professor Martin Richards of the University of Huddersfield, who led the genetic analysis. "Still, estimates based on the molecular clock can always be challenged."
To further verify these findings, the team is currently analyzing hundreds of whole human genome sequences. This expanded research will compare billions of base pairs to corroborate the initial mtDNA results.
Professor Helen Farr of the University of Southampton noted that the study highlights the sophistication of early human explorers. "This is a great story that helps refine our understanding of human origins, maritime mobility and early seafaring narratives," Farr said. "It reflects the really deep heritage that Indigenous communities have in this region and the skills and technology of these early voyagers."
The research underscores the deep ancestral connection Aboriginal Australians and New Guineans maintain with their land. By integrating archaeogenetics with maritime archaeology, the team successfully demonstrated that early navigation skills were far more advanced than previous models suggested.
