New South Wales has appointed its first Aboriginal representative to strengthen Indigenous knowledge and perspectives within advice provided to Government on caring for Country.
In August, Nari Nari man, Murray-Darling Basin Authority board member and UNSW Associate Professor, Rene Woods, was appointed Assistant Commissioner (Healthy Country) to the state's Natural Resource Commission.
Last year, the NSW Government's 'Reducing Risk, Securing the Future' Invasive Species Management Review preliminary report recommended a position of the type.
The report supported "the establishment of a First Nations Land and Sea Country Commissioner to represent Aboriginal people working in natural resource management, including invasive species management, at relevant senior levels of the NSW Government."
Invasive Species Council, and Indigenous Ambassador Richard Swain says it's a step in the right direction, but must only be the start.
In September 2024, Mr Swain said the role could help "depoliticise" efforts to care for the Country.
In March he added the appointment of an Assistant Commissioner was "important recognition that Indigenous knowledge and leadership are key to caring for Country, as we have done for thousands of years".
Mr Swain, a Wiradjuri man who grew up in the Snowy Mountains region, has long been an advocate for land management with Indigenous knowledge and history central.
"Invasive species are one of the biggest threats to Australia's native animals and plants," he said.
"They don't just damage Country – they threaten culturally significant species, waterways, and sacred places. This new role will help ensure Indigenous voices and Country herself are heard in tackling these challenges."
His and the Invasive Species Council's calls continue for a national, enshrined-in-law representative.
"Aboriginal people have always been a dignified voice when it comes to land management. If we're serious about healing Country, we need to go further," Mr Swain said.
"A permanent Aboriginal Commissioner for Country would ensure that First Nations leadership is not just included but embedded in law – with the independence and resources to drive real change.
"The Assistant Commissioner will be an important advocate for the respect of Country and we look forward to working with them."
The Natural Resource Commission has outlined Mr Woods, as Assistant Commissioner, will be tasked with helping strengthen advice provided regarding Aboriginal knowledge, culture and experience, improving cultural capability and engagement with Indigenous communities.
The body provides independent, evidence-based advice to the NSW Government on natural resource management.
Commissioner Professor Hugh Durrant-Whyte said Mr Woods brings 20 years of experience into the position, alongside "brings deep Cultural knowledge, strategic influence, and extensive networks across government and all community sectors to this important role".
Mr Woods said: "My goal as Assistant Commissioner is to make people aware of Aboriginal Culture and heritage, our land and water management on Country, and our rights and interests, as well as getting local communities back on Country and involved in natural resource management".
The Invasive Species Council, who call for "Indigenous voices to be given a seat at the decision-making table" welcomed this appointment as a milestone, though added "it must be just the start".
