Daily news digest January 23
Key Indigenous news stories in Australia for January 23, 2026, centre on land rights protests, environmental concerns, and preparations for upcoming cultural events.
Land Rights and Resource Management
K’gari (Fraser Island) Dingo Concerns:
Butchulla Traditional Owners are calling for a visitor cap on K’gari following a fatal dingo attack on a Canadian tourist. While Queensland Premier David Crisafulli has rejected immediate tourist caps, Traditional Owners are planning a customary blessing of the site and remain firmly opposed to culling the native dingo population.
Broome Fracking Protest:
Dozens of people gathered at Entrance Point beach in Broome to protest the proposed Valhalla fracking project near the Martuwarra Fitzroy River. Indigenous leaders expressed deep concern that the project, recommended to proceed by the EPA earlier this week, risks damaging vital water sources and cultural heritage sites.
Indigenous leaders expressed deep concern over fracking proposals in the Kimberley.
Northern Territory Political Friction:
The Northern Territory Land Council (NLC) has publicly criticised federal Labor politicians for “tip-toeing” around historical offensive comments made by the incoming NT Administrator. The NLC is calling for his appointment to be revoked, arguing that an apology is insufficient to restore trust.
Health and Community
Remote Connectivity Milestone:
High-speed internet has reached a remote Kimberley community for the first time through a charity-led pilot program. This initiative highlights the ongoing digital divide, where over 20 per cent of First Nations people remain digitally excluded.
Governance of Indigenous Data:
The Department of Health, Disability and Ageing has released a summary of its Implementation Plan for the Governance of Indigenous Data, aimed at ensuring First Nations ownership and control over community health data.
Culture and Upcoming Events
Survival Day/Invasion Day Preparations:
Extensive guides have been released for events happening on January 26, including:
Cairns:
The Survival Day Knockouts Reconciliation Carnival begins today and runs through the weekend.
Sydney:
The “Blak Powerhouse” event at Manning House will feature live music, smoking ceremonies, and cultural workshops.
Alice Springs:
The town’s new mayor, Greens Asta Hill, has announced she will not participate in official Australia Day celebrations.
Arts and Entertainment:
Electro-pop artist Djanaba has been announced to perform at Laneway 2026, and a new mural of Palawa women in Hobart is being celebrated for highlighting colonial narratives.
