Arafura Swamp protection ensures cultural values

The dedication of the Arafura Swamp Indigenous Protected Area has been celebrated with a ceremony at Djakarlawirrka (Army Crossing) – locking in traditional land management practices and supporting local jobs in Arnhem Land in the Northern Territory.

The new area covers 1.3 million hectares of land and sea Country over which Yolngu, Bininji and Rembarrnga people have sole native title rights.

The Arafura Swamp is home to many threatened species, including the eastern curlew, northern quoll and the northern brushtail possum.

The IPA Bungul sign to the dedication ceremony

It’s believed to be Northern Australia’s largest wooded perennial freshwater swamp and listed as a Nationally Important Wetland, making this IPA crucial for conservation.

Minister for the Environment and Water Murray Watt said this was one of 12 IPAs established under the Albanese Government since 2022 – a key part of delivering on the Government’s commitment to protect 30 percent of land by 2030.

More Traditional Owners protecting their land

“Establishing this IPA ensures the protection of the cultural and environmental values of Yolngu, Bininji and Rembarrnga Country in the beautiful Arnhem region,” Minister Watt said.

“The Arafura Swamp IPA adds an additional 1 million hectares of land to the National Reserve System which means close to 25 percent of Australia’s total landmass is now protected.

A director signs the Arafura Swamp IPA at the ceremony

“We want to see more Traditional Owners protecting more of their land, that’s why we’re supporting the establishment of new Indigenous Protected Areas through the $250 million Australian Bushland program.”

Minister for Indigenous Australians Malarndirri McCarthy said the Northern Land Council and the Arafura Swamp Rangers Aboriginal Corporation will continue to work with Traditional Owners to manage the IPA.

“First Nations people have cared for the Arafura Swamp for generations and this IPA dedication will help protect this vast wetland for future generations,” Minister McCarthy said.

ASRAC Rangers at dedication ceremony

“Ensuring First Nations people are at the forefront of land and sea management and conservation is part of our commitment under the National Agreement on Closing the Gap.”

“The first round expansion of our Indigenous Rangers Program included funding for new positions for women with the Arafura Swamp Rangers, which will provide additional support to care for this beautiful country.”