WWF WELCOMES A DOZEN NEW INDIGENOUS PROTECTED AREAS

The World Wide Fund for Nature-Australia today welcomed the federal government’s announcement of 12 new Indigenous Protected Areas (IPAs) because of their benefits to First Nations people and their contribution to Australia’s 30x30 commitment.

“IPAs provide a physical and spiritual connection to Country for Traditional Owners,” said Cliff Cobbo, First Nations Principal Advisor, for WWF-Australia.

“Employment as rangers offers financial stability and rewarding career paths. The return on investment is huge providing economic, social and cultural benefits for people and communities.

“In recent years, a focus on boosting the numbers of female rangers is enabling women to exercise their cultural authority in Caring for Country.

“Across Australia, Indigenous rangers are at the forefront of efforts to save some of our most endangered species.

“But we call on the federal government to provide Traditional Owners the support and resources they need to ensure these areas are adequately protected and managed.

“The new IPAs will protect 7.5 million hectares of land and 450,000 hectares of sea Country. That is an important contribution towards Australia’s commitment to protect 30% of lands and 30% of oceans by 2030,” Mr Cobbo said.