Key Points
- Country Needs People has reached out to every party to secure commitments to Queensland's Indigenous Land & Sea Ranger Program
- Find our where each party stands below
With the Queensland Election just days away, Country Needs People has been working hard to get a commitment from all the major parties to support the hugely successful Queensland Indigenous Land & Sea Ranger Program.
Over 17 years the Queensland Government has grown the program to support over 200 Indigenous Rangers across 47 remote and regional locations, so it’s critical that Queensland’s Indigenous Ranger program is secured into the future, no matter what outcome the election.
We’ve asked every party what their plans are to secure, strengthen and support Queensland Indigenous Rangers. (Note: We never tell you how to vote, that's your choice, but we do bring you the information to help you decide.)
Here’s what the parties had to say in response:
Liberal National Party
In a media release, Sam O’Connor announced that the LNP would deliver 150 additional ranger jobs in the next four years, which would include both Rangers in National Parks as well as Indigenous Rangers.
See their online statement here.
Queensland Labor
In correspondence to Country Needs People the Labor Party stated the following: "The Miles Labor Government values the Indigenous Land and Sea Ranger Program (the Program) and its distinct yet complementary role to Parks and Reserves management arrangements. That is why our Government is investing $27 million per annum into the Program and recently committed to an annual increase of 2.5% per annum to reflect annual increases in operating costs. Investment is forecast to grow to $28.726 million per annum by 2027-28. A re-elected Miles Labor Government will consider proposals to build on the existing Program capability including extreme weather support, with delivery partners, through future budget processes."
Queensland Greens
The Greens in correspondence to Country Needs People have proposed to “Increase Indigenous Land and Sea Ranger jobs from 200 to 300 positions in roles and areas decided in consultation with First Nations people”. Read online commitment here.
One Nation
In correspondence to Country Needs People supporters, One Nation has stated they would "support the Indigenous Land and Sea Ranger Program into the future while it continues to deliver positive outcomes for the Queensland community".
Katter's Australian Party
In correspondence to Country Needs People supporters, Katter’s Australian Party has stated they would be “continuing to demand an increase in funding towards Queensland’s Indigenous Ranger Program”.
Sandy Bolton - Independent
In correspondence to Country Needs People Sandy Bolton MP stated that “Should Sandy be re-elected and Noosa remain Independent, these efforts (to support Indigenous Rangers) will continue as knowledge from our First Nations Peoples on our environment is invaluable, particularly in managing fire risks and assisting with disasters".