Published: 1 Oct 2024

We welcome the Queensland Liberal National Party's recent commitment to increase investment in the Queensland Indigenous Land and Sea Program.

Ewamian woman and General Manager of Ewamian Limited, Sharon Prior, highlighted the significance of investment for long-term sustainability.

"An increased investment in the Queensland Indigenous Land & Sea Program would bring great benefits for people, nature, and culture. We need security so this successful program continues into the future. Sustainability isn't just about jobs."

Ms Prior emphasised the need for more investment in logistical and operational support.

"We need more investment in logistical and operational support, so our Indigenous Rangers are properly supported and have the equipment they need to manage wildfires, fight ferals, and protect threatened species," she said.

Country Needs People CEO Patrick O'Leary noted that Queensland has a successful state-funded program for community-based Indigenous Land and Sea Rangers.

"Queensland has a unique, highly successful state-funded investment in community-based Indigenous Land and Sea Rangers," said Mr O'Leary.

"Queensland's nationally leading Indigenous Land and Sea Ranger Program has run for 17 years and now supports over 200 local jobs across 47 remote and regional areas, providing a better approach to managing key environmental pressures."

"The LNP commitment to grow the Queensland Indigenous Land and Sea Ranger program over time means existing Indigenous Ranger jobs will be secure, and we can look forward to more growth into the future."

Read the full story in National Indigenous Times here