Recipients announced for Western Australia’s Aboriginal Ranger Program Round Six

Western Australia’s Aboriginal Ranger Program Round Six will see more than $11 million shared among 12 Aboriginal organisations.

The Round Six grants have been awarded to 12 projects that explore innovative ways to maximise the benefits of the program.

The successful projects under the Innovation Fund include a native seed facility, cultural-contemporary burning, fauna sanctuary planning and wetland management.

The Aboriginal Ranger Program has created more than 650 ranger jobs on Country since 2017. It has also supported the management of nearly 500 significant cultural sites, 2,000 kilometres of tracks and weed management across 2,000 hectares of land.

Following an initial $20 million investment, a further $83 million has been allocated to support the development, expansion and innovation of Aboriginal ranger groups across the State with a focus on remote and regional locations.

WA Environment Minister Reece Whitby congratulated the recipients of this latest round of funding and noted "The Aboriginal Ranger Program continues to make a real difference, providing valuable employment opportunities across our great State.

"We want to empower Aboriginal communities to care for their Country and culture. For every $1 invested, the program creates approximately $3 worth of social, economic, cultural and environmental value."

WA Aboriginal Affairs Minister Dr Tony Buti added "Our Government is committed to building the skills and knowledge of Aboriginal ranger teams across Western Australia and encourage shared learning.

"The Aboriginal Ranger Program creates meaningful opportunities while developing community resilience and leadership. We're continuing to invest and build on the program's success.

"This funding round ensures expert knowledge continues to be passed on to help communities care for their Country in a way that protects cultural and environmental values."       

For more information, visit dbca.wa.gov.au/aboriginalrangerprogram     

Bardi Jawi Oorany Rangers. Photo by DBCA