Around the country, Indigenous rangers are using a unique mix of traditional knowledge and modern science to protect the Outback and sustain our native plants and animals. Rangers are combatting feral animals and the spread of noxious weeds, managing wildfires, protecting cultural sites, maintaining sustainable tourism opportunities and supporting research.

And where Indigenous Protected Areas and Indigenous ranger programs are established, communities are reporting better mental and physical health, reduced substance abuse, stronger employment outcomes and more commercial opportunities.

These jobs are not only protecting nature, they are transforming lives.

This is a crucial moment for these programs. With great uncertainty about their funding future beyond 2018, and the need and demand for more Indigenous rangers positions already exceeding supply, it's time for the government to step up with a public commitment for their long term future and growth.

Join the Country Needs People campaign in calling for the Federal Government to:

• Double the funding for Indigenous ranger programs and Indigenous Protected Areas by 2020.
• Extend the length of Indigenous land and sea management contracts to generate the stability required for Indigenous groups and individuals to build capacity and deliver lasting social economic and environmental outcomes.
• Establish a long term target of funding for 5000 rangers to meet both environmental needs across the continent and fully realise the social and economic benefits of these programs.

Call on Treasurer Scott Morrison and Minister Nigel Scullion to invest in the success of Indigenous rangers and Indigenous Protected Areas in the 2016 Federal Budget.

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