Funding to enhance Cape York’s protection of natural and cultural values

The Queensland Government’s 2023-24 State Budget includes additional funding to help protect the natural landscapes and cultural values of Cape York Peninsula for future generations.

The budget also includes an investment to support the joint management of Cape York’s national parks between the Queensland Parks and Wildlife Service and Traditional Owners.

The funding will provide additional resources for Cape York’s 34 national parks and 19 Indigenous Management Agreements (IMAs)  and will increase First Nations employment as well as provide training and accreditation for IMA partner organisations.

Funding includes:

• $8.6 million over the next four years and $2.3 million ongoing for Cape York Indigenous Management Agreements (IMAs)

• $2.6 million over the next four years and $0.9 million ongoing to enable greater transfer of management responsibility for Cape York Peninsula national parks to Traditional Owners

• $3.6 million over the next four years and $0.5 million ongoing to review ongoing IMAs and Indigenous Land Use Agreements.

Joint management arrangements for National Park CYPAL are established through the development of an IMA and a park management statement or management plan.

Funding benefits include strengthened fire and pest management, cultural heritage management and park planning, compliance, asset construction and maintenance of Cape York’s protected area.

Olkola Aboriginal Corporation Chief Executive Debbie Symonds noted “The commitment of extra funding to national parks across Cape York is a much-needed boost for us as traditional owners.

“It empowers traditional owners by providing resources and support to improve skills, knowledge, and abilities in managing and preserving parks culturally and in line with traditional lore and customs.

“A stronger relationship with QPWS can facilitate a more active role in the decision-making processes and acknowledges our profound connection with the land and our unique perspectives on conservation.

“The funding initiative is designed to safeguard the natural and cultural heritage of Cape York's national parks for current and future generations.

“By involving Traditional Owners in the management process, it not only preserves the ecological integrity of the parks but also ensures that the land's cultural significance and Indigenous knowledge are respected and protected.”