ABORIGINAL RANGER GROUPS BENEFIT COMMUNITIES: NEW STUDY

In the Kimberley, Aboriginal rangers are caring for country. Credit: Supplied, DBCA.

The WA Government’s Aboriginal Ranger Program has benefited communities by offering employment and strengthening connection to country, according to a new study by the Department of Biodiversity, Conservation and Attractions (DBCA).

Phase one of the $20 million program ran from 2017 to 2021 and is the subject of a new report, ‘Empowering People, Culture and Connection to Country.’

Ranger units involved in the study included the Karajarri Rangers, Nyul Nyul Rangers, and Bardi Jawi Oorany Rangers.

DBCA social scientist Dr. Kate Rodger said the program benefited people and country.

“When speaking to some of the rangers, they’ll say, ‘to get out on country I’ve got pride; I’ve got respect; the community looks up to me; I’ve become a role model for community,’” she said.

“The other aspect was for women. Through the Aboriginal Ranger Program, almost 50 percent of all rangers funded were women, so we had women back on country looking after women’s business.”

Listen to an interview with Dr Rodger to learn more: