The federal government has committed $30 million to support a new Traditional Owner-led program aimed at protecting and managing the Great Barrier Reef.
The Traditional Owner Water Quality Program will fund projects guided by Traditional Owner values and knowledge systems, with a government spokesperson saying the program recognises the deep connection between Country, People and Culture.
The initiative includes work on restoring critical ecosystems like mangroves and wetlands — natural environments that help filter pollutants before they reach the Reef.
There are at least 70 Traditional Owner groups with cultural rights, interests, and aspirations in Sea Country along the length of the Reef.
Scientists have previously warned the Reef remains under severe threat from climate change, which is causing ocean warming and an increase in coral bleaching events.
According to the government, the program will harness the skills and knowledge of First Nations people to improve water quality flowing into the Reef.
Minister for Indigenous Australians Malarndirri McCarthy said the government was "proud" to support a program led by Traditional Owners.
"Traditional Owner knowledge is invaluable in caring for land and sea Country, and informs the work of Indigenous Rangers actively managing sea Country on the Reef," she said.
"This investment will help deliver positive outcomes for the environment as well as economic development opportunities."
The funding will also support the Reef 2050 Traditional Owner Implementation Plan. The Plan helps the Traditional Owner-led Reef Traditional Owner Taskforce carry out its priorities, including stronger engagement with Traditional Owners, establishing a Sea Country Alliance, and properly resourcing tracking and monitoring efforts.
Environment and Water Minister Murray Watt said poor water quality is among the most significant threats to the Reef, and government efforts must reflect the "inherent rights, interests, obligations and aspirations of Traditional Owners and Custodians".
"I'm proud to represent Australia at next week's UN Ocean Conference, it will be an opportunity to share our knowledge and experience in ocean management, including the importance of Traditional Owner knowledge and action, which is central to protecting our precious World-Heritage Listed Great Barrier Reef," he said.
"They have been caring for sea country for thousands of years and we're investing in that knowledge and experience."
Assistant Minister for Northern Australia, Tourism and Pacific Island Affairs Nita Green also emphasised the importance of Traditional Owner leadership.
"Traditional Owners hold thousands of years of knowledge and practice protecting sea country," she said.
"When we work directly with Traditional Owners in a genuine and authentic way, we can protect and create local Reef jobs."
