Indigenous news digest, January 13
Major Indigenous Australian news for Tuesday, January 13, 2026, includes Federal funding for new protected areas and environmental ranger initiatives.
Land & Environment
New Indigenous Protected Areas (IPAs):
Federal funding has been allocated for eight new Indigenous Protected Areas across Australia. Applications for further funding under the Australian Bushland Program officially opened today and will remain open until March 11, 2026.
Feral Animal Control:
Martu and Kiwirrkurra Rangers in Western Australia’s far east are conducting intensive operations to target feral cats, foxes, and camels. Rangers noted that the current peak summer heat is the most effective time for tracking and managing these threats to native wildlife.
Sustainable Construction:
A remote community in the Kimberley has begun a project to manufacture bricks from local materials (“Country”), aiming to build sustainable housing while maintaining cultural connection.
The Emama Nguda Aboriginal Corporation (ENAC) has supported the initiative, based in Derby.
Community & Culture
2026 Balnaves Fellow:
Bianca Hunt was officially announced as the 2026 Balnaves Foundation Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Fellow.
Blak Cede Gunyah:
A feature highlighted the success of Blak Cede Gunyah in Nowra, NSW, for its role in championing Aboriginal culture and traditional food practices.
Blak Cede is an Aboriginal women-led social and cultural enterprise which cultivates traditional bush foods from their community garden to produce high quality products for our cafe and online store.
It empowers Koori women from the Shoalhaven area on the South Coast of NSW to lead self-determined lives by providing culturally safe employment and educational opportunities.
Legal & Activism
Warrantless Search Challenge:
A significant court challenge regarding Victoria Police’s warrantless pat-down powers is proceeding today.
Protest Vows:
Activists, including Paul Silva, have publicly vowed to continue resistance against new protest laws, specifically confirming that Invasion Day rallies scheduled for January 26 in Sydney will proceed despite potential legal pressures.
Sports
Injury & Leave:
Carlton forward Jesse Motlop has unfortunately suffered a likely season-ending knee injury during training. Meanwhile, Geelong’s Tyson Stengle has been granted preseason leave by the club.
