The Department of Agriculture, Fisheries and Forestry has released a discussion paper exploring First Nations’ economic participation in the sector.
The discussion paper seeks views on opportunities and barriers affecting First Nations peoples and businesses across the sector.
It builds on feedback gathered in 2024 and sets out priority areas for further discussion, including representation in the sector, use of the Indigenous Estate, Indigenous Cultural and Intellectual Property, business support, research collaboration, and government coordination and transparency.
The consultation period will run for six weeks, closing on 12 December 2025.
All Australians involved or interested in First Nations’ participation in agriculture, fisheries and forestry are encouraged to contribute.
Responses to the discussion paper will help shape a National Statement that supports Indigenous economic inclusion in the sector.
The department invites all interested stakeholders to provide feedback via its Have Your Say platform here: haveyoursay.agriculture.gov.au/national-statement-first-nations
Fast facts
- The development of a joint National Statement on First Nations in Agriculture, Fisheries and Forestry was agreed at the Agriculture Ministers’ Meeting in 2024, with Commonwealth, state and territory agriculture departments tasked to jointly lead this work.
- In 2024, over 350 stakeholders, including 160 First Nations people and 90 Indigenous organisations, provided feedback outlining their aspirations for First Nations’ economic inclusion in the sector. Consultation on the discussion paper invites further input to ensure the National Statement is shaped by the industries and communities it seeks to support.
