- $7.38 million grant funding strengthens 22 Pilbara native title organisations
- New jobs, increased capacity and stronger heritage management processes
- Cook Labor Government’s $58 million Native Title Party Capacity Building Program delivering positive outcomes
The Cook Labor Government is delivering on its commitment to strengthen Aboriginal cultural heritage management in the Pilbara, with a major grants program helping native title organisations build capability, create local jobs, and improve services for their communities.
Through the Native Title Party Capacity Building Program, 22 Pilbara native title organisations are strengthening their ability to manage and protect Aboriginal cultural heritage while expanding employment opportunities and improving services for members.
The funding is supporting practical, on-the-ground outcomes across the region with Wanparta Aboriginal Corporation employing a dedicated officer to support governance and stakeholder engagement.
Tjamu Tjamu Aboriginal Corporation is enhancing heritage management through innovative digital mapping projects across Kiwirrkurra Country and stronger community involvement though a Land and Culture Advisory Committee.
Buurabalayji Thalanyji Aboriginal Corporation has introduced new systems to manage heritage information and proponent applications, while Gobawarrah Yinhawangka Aboriginal Corporation is strengthening organisational capacity, stakeholder engagement and specialist heritage expertise.
Investment in staff development and training is also helping Yindjibarndi Aboriginal Corporation build the skills and systems needed to support effective cultural heritage management.
The Native Title Party Capacity Building Program is a key initiative of the State-wide Native Title Party Support Strategy and is helping native title organisations participate more effectively in heritage, land management and consultation processes across Western Australia.
Established in 2023, the $58 million program supports 77 native title parties through long-term funding agreements, enabling investment in people, systems, and services that strengthen organisational capability and support the protection of Aboriginal cultural heritage.
As stated by Aboriginal Affairs Minister Don Punch:
“Traditional Owners are at the forefront of protecting and managing Aboriginal cultural heritage, and this program is giving native title organisations the resources and capability to lead that work.
“The outcomes we are seeing across the Pilbara show the value of investing in Aboriginal-led organisations, creating local jobs, strengthening governance and building the systems needed to protect cultural heritage for future generations.
“The Cook Labor Government is committed to empowering native title organisations to lead decision-making on Country, strengthen their communities and build long-term capability across Western Australia.”
