$355 million federal government investment creates 1000 new roles for Indigenous rangers

The amount of rangers is set to double across the country thanks to a $355 million investment into one program – with women expected to lead the way. Find out more.

Rangers complete training at Manton Dam to boost skills and knowledge in fisheries compliance which they can take back to their communities.

A nationwide expansion of the Indigenous ranger program is taking place thanks to a $355 million investment from the federal government – and First Nations women are expected to lead the way.

The investment will create more than 1000 new Indigenous ranger jobs, which will be a mixture of full time, part time and casual roles.

Of those new roles, 770 are expected to go to First Nations women.

Minister for Indigenous Australians Malarndirri McCarthy said expanding the Indigenous rangers program would provide more opportunities for First Nations people to share their knowledge.

Federal Minister for Indigenous Australians Malarndirri McCarthy. Picture: Gera Kazakov

“I’m particularly pleased to see so many new opportunities for women Indigenous rangers who play a unique role in caring for country,” she said.

Twelve projects in the NT will receive funding, and new ranger groups will also be able to join the Commonwealth Indigenous Rangers Program.

Ranger groups will be able to apply for grants of up to $50,000 per year through the program. 

Minister for Environment and Water Tanya Plibersek said expanding the Indigenous ranger program supported traditional owners to protect “land and sea country for future generations”.

“First Nations people have actively managed Country for 65,000 years and provide skilled environmental and cultural expertise that benefits all of Australia,” she said.