The Laynhapuy Indigenous Protected Area (IPA) in East Arnhem Land, Northern Territory, has been expanded to protect more land and sea Country.
The expansion adds 356,571 hectares, bringing the total size of the IPA to more than 1.2 million hectares. The area was officially dedicated on 21 November 2025.
Traditional Owners and custodians care for the area following Yolŋu law and culture. The IPA is managed by local Yirralka rangers, who live on their homelands and use both traditional knowledge and western science to care for Country.
The IPA is also home to many native animals and plants, including 48 threatened and 52 migratory species. Animals found in the area include:
- the eastern curlew
- green turtle
- northern quoll
- northern brushtail possum
- northern brown bandicoot
The area is rich in culture, with important sacred sites, songlines and places where knowledge is passed between generations.
The Laynhapuy Homelands Aboriginal Corporation will continue working closely with Traditional Owners to manage the IPA.
Indigenous Protected Areas now make up more than half of Australia's protected land and are helping Australia reach its goal of protecting 30 per cent of land by 2030.
