• Investment of $16.5 million made through latest round of Aboriginal Ranger Program
• Aboriginal Ranger Program has created 1,400 jobs for Aboriginal people since 2017
• Tourism and climate action projects receive funding as part of latest round

The State Government is backing the successful work of Aboriginal rangers with a $16.5 million investment in the latest round of the Aboriginal Ranger Program.

Since its launch in 2017, the State Government has invested $100 million in the program, creating on-Country jobs for 1,400 Aboriginal people.

These roles have supported a range of activities, including biodiversity research, Traditional Owner knowledge transfer, and management of cultural sites and fires.

Projects funded as part of the program's eighth round include a dedicated Aboriginal Cultural Tourism Ranger Program offering youth traineeships and pathways for teenagers and young adults, and a Carbon Economy Preparation Project that will enable Aboriginal people to participate in the renewable energy and carbon capture sector.

A full list of recipients can be found here.

Comments attributed to Environment Minister Reece Whitby:

"Research shows that for every $1 invested in the Aboriginal Ranger Program approximately $3 worth of social, economic, cultural, and environmental value is created.

"Our Government has invested more than $100 million in Aboriginal rangers since 2017, making practical differences on the ground for Indigenous communities."

Comments attributed to Aboriginal Affairs Minister Dr Tony Buti:

"This is a fantastic initiative that contributes to the social and economic prosperity of Aboriginal communities.

"We continue to see these grants achieving practical outcomes right across Western Australia."