The Territory Labor Government is investing in jobs out bush with more than $3 million in grants awarded under the Aboriginal Ranger Grants Program.
This will see $4.1 million in grants delivered over two years to ranger groups for essential equipment, and $2 million per year over four years for Land Management and Conservation Fund projects that improve and develop conservation practices on Aboriginal land.
Under round one of the program, funds were given to 27 Ranger groups for Capital Works and 22 projects received funding to improve and develop conservation practices on Aboriginal land.
One of the 27 Ranger groups, the local Larrakia Rangers received $83,000 to build a 5.4 metre boat to support their programs.
Round two of the Territory Governments Aboriginal Ranger Grant Program is set to open for applications Monday on 24 September 2018.
Go to https://denr.nt.gov.au/aboriginalrangergrants for more information about the Aboriginal Ranger Grants and to obtain an application form.
As noted by Minister for Environment and Natural Resources, Eva Lawler:
“The Territory Labor Government’s number one priority is creating local jobs, and the Aboriginal Ranger Grant Program support jobs on country and delivers economic opportunities in some of the Territory’s most remote communities.”
“Our Aboriginal Rangers provide a crucial frontline role in protecting country across vast areas of the Northern Territory and these grants support and recognise this important contribution.”
“I congratulate local boat builder Dale Smith and Custom Works NT for the brilliant job they’ve done putting this together in partnership with the Larrakia Rangers.”
As stated by Larrakia Nation Aboriginal Corporation CEO, Robert Cooper:
“The Ranger Vessel will increase the Larrakia Rangers’ capacity to manage commercial contracts, such as the Conoco Phillips Crocodile Monitoring for Diver Safety project and will support the monitoring of Mud Crab populations in Larrakia sea country.”
“I thank the NTG for their continuing support of the traditional owners, the Larrakia or saltwater people, in providing us with the capability to access our traditional lands along the coastal margin for the benefit of all residents and visitors to the region.”
As noted by Custom Works NT Director, Dale Smith:
“Custom Works is very proud to be involved in developing 'fit for purpose' vessels for the Marine Ranger groups across the NT coastline. Our boats are designed in the territory, specifically to the National Standard for Commercial Vessels, and includes many safety features including Level Flotation.”
