Morrison Government commits over $700 million to Indigenous rangers to care for country

Media release - Minister Wyatt

The Morrison Government is delivering on its commitment to long-term funding for the Indigenous Ranger Program, with 80 organisations selected to continue caring for Australia’s natural and cultural landscape for the next seven years.

Minister for Indigenous Australians, the Hon Ken Wyatt AM, MP, said more than $746 million over seven years will provide ongoing support for more than 1,900 Indigenous jobs and allow ranger groups to be more strategic with their land and sea management.

“The Indigenous Rangers Program recognises that country, culture and community are intrinsically connected and imperative to Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples’ overall wellbeing,” Minister Wyatt said.

“The Morrison Government is committed to future-proofing employment opportunities as part of its COVID recovery efforts. The ongoing investment in the Indigenous ranger program ensures sustainable jobs for Indigenous Australians by caring for country on country.

“Ranger groups hold deep knowledge of their lands and the contribution of this traditional knowledge is leading to improvements in modern environmental science and current approaches to managing our landscapes.

“These grants will support organisations to address local priorities, including asset management, access to new and emerging technologies, data collection and capacity building for organisations and individuals.

“In addition to protecting Australia’s environmental and heritage assets, caring for country generates economic opportunities and social and cultural benefits for Indigenous peoples that strengthen the wellbeing of communities and benefit Australia as a whole.

“This commitment helps ensure Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples maintain a distinctive cultural, spiritual, physical and economic relationship with their land and waters to the benefit of all Australians.”

Indigenous organisations participated in the design and implementation of the seven year extension through a comprehensive consultation process, including 42 workshops over a five month period.