- Cook Government grant program boosts capacity of 77 native title parties to 2028-2029
- Over 30 new jobs, ICT investment, and training for managing Aboriginal heritage
- Latest recipients expand program coverage to 88 per cent of the State
- Grants helping to provide quality jobs and business opportunities
More than two dozen native title organisations across the Kimberely, Pilbara, and Goldfields are set to benefit from a $58 million Cook Government grant program designed to strengthen their capacity to manage and protect cultural heritage.
The parties are the latest recipients of the Native Title Party Capacity Building Program - an initiative that allows groups to not only upskill but help them expand.
Under the Aboriginal Heritage Act 1972, proponents are expected to consult with native title parties on activities that may affect cultural heritage.
To date, more than $9.2 million has been provided to 51 native title parties, with agreements progressing for a further 26 recipients.
This brings the total number of groups supported by the grant program to 77, extending its coverage to 88 per cent of Western Australia
Funding agreements between the State and recipients include tailored measures of success, which may involve employing heritage staff, delivering training and upskilling opportunities, upgrading heritage-related IT systems, and engaging dedicated resources to manage heritage matters.
The 26 additional native title parties will receive more than $14 million over the next three years. This funding will strengthen their ability to deliver heritage services and provide expert advice to industry and government, supporting Western Australia's ambition to be a global leader in investment attraction, industry facilitation and regulatory excellence.
The program complements the State Government's investment in Aboriginal heritage surveys, with up to $5 million allocated annually to cover survey costs. This ensures Aboriginal people and organisations can record cultural heritage values on Country, refine mapping and boundaries, and update information about heritage sites.
As stated by Aboriginal Affairs Minister Don Punch:
"Last year, 51 native title parties were successfully supported through this program.
"With the latest funding round, that number has grown to 77, meaning almost the entire State is now covered by organisations with greater capacity to manage heritage responsibilities.
"This is an important investment in key Aboriginal organisations, giving them the resources to engage with proponents and participate in decisions about their cultural heritage.
"It provides funding assurance and the support needed to employ people, invest in equipment and training, and ensure cultural knowledge is captured and preserved for future generations.
"Aboriginal culture remains one of the oldest living cultures in the world, and the Cook Government is committed to ensuring heritage is considered appropriately in all land use activities.
"Strengthening the capacity of native title parties will lead to stronger partnerships with industry and government and also open doors to economic growth for Aboriginal communities."
