The Department of Environment and Science is to employ 50 new Indigenous Land and Sea Rangers over the next 12 months with the aim of helping to protect the State’s natural and cultural landscapes.
The intake will be the first instalment of a total of 100 new Indigenous ranger jobs to be funded over the next three years, doubling the number of Land and Sea Rangers in the program to 200.
Minister for the Environment, Meaghan Scanlon said the boost for the Queensland Indigenous Land and Sea Ranger Program would provide opportunities for First Nation organisations to manage their country and facilitate the exchange of knowledge and expertise with other land managers.
“By increasing Indigenous ranger numbers to 200 over the next three years, we’re delivering jobs and supporting the critical role of First Nations people in co-stewarding Queensland’s environment and cultural heritage,” Ms Scanlon said.
“Through the Queensland Indigenous Land and Sea Ranger Program, First Nations organisations are provided with grants and support to establish ranger teams.”
Ms Scanlon said the program delivered multiple benefits for First Nations communities and for the conservation of some of Queensland’s most valuable landscapes.
“The Indigenous land and sea rangers contribute to the protection of Queensland’s ecosystems and cultural heritage,” she said.
“The program also provides jobs and promotes economic opportunities associated with land and sea management.”
She said ranger teams carried out habitat restoration, feral animal and weed control, fire management and drove community engagement such as Junior Ranger programs.
Applications for the first round of 50 new positions close on 31 March.
Further information, including the guideline and rangers’ application form, can be accessed at this PS News link.
