Karri Karrak celebrates $2.78 million grant to protect Country and Culture
Media release
Karri Karrak Aboriginal Corporation is proud to announce it has received a significant grant of $2.78 million from the Australian Government’s National Indigenous Australians Agency (NIAA) under the Indigenous Rangers – Jobs, Land and Economy Program.
This funding supports the implementation of the Karri Karrak Ranger Program Strategy 2025-2035, which will build on Karri Karrak’s existing Junior Ranger program funded through the Western Australian Government’s Aboriginal Ranger Program.
The grant will enable Karri Karrak to employ and train more people to care for Country in line with Traditional Custodian priorities. Activities will include biodiversity management, cultural heritage protection, and intergenerational knowledge sharing, ensuring Noongar culture and language remain strong for future generations.
Prof Stephen van Leeuwen, Chair Karri Karrak said:
“This is a proud moment for Karri Karrak and the South-West Boojarah community. This funding means we can expand our ranger team and deliver projects that truly reflect the aspirations of Traditional Custodians. It’s about putting Noongar voices at the heart of land, water and sea management across the region.”
Ben Tannock, Lands Manager, added:
“For our rangers, this is a fantastic job to have as part of your career. it’s an opportunity to learn, share culture and do this whilst protecting and working on Boodja - Country.”
The program will operate across key locations including Margaret River–Augusta–Scott River East, Bridgetown, Capel–Dardanup, and Manjimup, fostering partnerships between Traditional Custodians, local stakeholders, land and biodiversity management agencies and research organisations. The initiative will deliver best-practice approaches to land and water management working with Wardandi, Piblemen and Kaneang Noongar people.
Karri Karrak looks forward to delivering this important program and continuing its commitment to caring for Country and strengthening Noongar culture.
This grant directly contributes to the delivery of KKAC’s Ranger Program Strategy 2025–2035 and our vision to protect and restore Boodja through sustainable practices that create lasting environmental and economic benefits.
Karri Karrak looks forward to delivering this important program and continuing its commitment to caring for Boodja and strengthening Noongar culture.
For media enquiries, please contact:
Prof Stephen van Leeuwen – Chair Karri Karrak Aboriginal Corporation
Phone: 0429 105 140 | Email: stephen@karrikarrak.org.au
Download: Karri Karrak Aboriginal Corporation media release (PDF 492KB)