Joint media release: Celebrating the work of Indigenous Rangers on World Ranger Day

800 new Indigenous ranger jobs will be created through a second round expansion of the Indigenous Rangers Program, with applications currently being assessed. It follows more than 1,000 new Indigenous ranger jobs being created in 115 projects across the country last year, including 770 jobs for First Nations women. For more than 65,000 years, First Nations people have been caretakers of Australia’s land, rivers, seas and unique biodiversity.

Indigenous rangers continue this legacy today, managing Country according to Traditional Owners’ objectives combined with modern conservation training. To mark World Ranger Day, Indigenous rangers are invited to take part in the 2025 Healthy Country, Healthy Waters, Healthy Communities photography and video competition. The competition, run by the National Indigenous Australians Agency and Department of Climate Change, Energy, Environment and Water is a chance for Indigenous rangers to showcase their work.

For more information, including eligibility criteria, visit www.indigenous.gov.au/photo-comp Quotes attributable to Minister for Indigenous Australians, Senator Malarndirri McCarthy: “On World Ranger Day, we recognise the outstanding contributions of Indigenous rangers who care for Country with deep knowledge and dedication. “Indigenous rangers are doing incredible work every day, protecting the environment, preserving biodiversity and keeping culture strong.

“This competition is a chance for Indigenous rangers to share their stories and celebrate the beauty of Country.” Quotes attributable to Minister for the Environment and Water, Senator Murray Watt: “It’s important we commemorate the vital work of rangers who protect our natural and cultural heritage. In Australia, Indigenous rangers stand at the forefront of this effort, combining traditional knowledge with contemporary science to care for Country.

“Their connection to Country runs deep. It is the foundation of Indigenous identity and culture, rooted in more than 65,000 years of continuous care for land, rivers, seas and the living ecosystems of Country across Australia. “This competition is a wonderful opportunity to celebrate how Indigenous rangers continue this legacy, not only as caretakers of Country, but as guardians for their people, nurturing strength, compassion and kindness within communities.” We acknowledge the Traditional Owners of country throughout Australia and recognise their continuing connection to land, waters and culture.

We pay our respects to their Elders past, present and emerging.