First Nations peoples have cared for Country for over 65,000 years. They continue to hold deep knowledge of dry times, seasonal and environmental change.
We partner with First Nations peoples, organisations and communities to prepare for dry times and a changing climate.
Together we are creating opportunities for strong food systems, Caring for Country and building stronger connections to community and culture.
Working together creates benefits for people, businesses, landscapes, and communities.
What’s new
First Nations market research findings
We asked First Nations peoples about their experiences of dry times.
We listened to their priorities, aspirations and concerns.
Learn more about what we heard and stay tuned to hear how we are putting this feedback into action.
Strengthening Drought Resilience on Country delivery partners
We have selected 5 First Nations delivery partners to support place-based, First Nations-led activities on Country.
They will work with communities to identify local priorities and develop projects together.
Learn more about the program and connect with a delivery partner in your region.
How we work with First Nations peoples
We recognise the ongoing responsibilities First Nations peoples hold for Country, culture and community.
We respect and value the traditional and contemporary knowledges held by First Nations peoples.
With the support and agreement of Traditional Owners, these knowledge systems can continue to help communities prepare for dry times and a changing climate.
We value strong relationships built on trust, respect and shared purpose.
We are committed to working in partnership with First Nations peoples, organisations and communities.
We know there is more to do.
We will continue to listen, learn and be guided by First Nations peoples on how to improve outcomes.
Stay connected to learn about upcoming opportunities to get involved and how we are listening to and addressing First Nations priorities.
First Nations Advisory Group
The First Nations Advisory Group brings together 6 First Nations members.
The group provides advice on the design and delivery of Future Drought Fund activities. They help identify barriers, strengthen participation and improve access to opportunities.
Learn more about the group’s role and members.
Future Drought Fund First Nations Advisory Group Terms of Reference
If you have difficulty accessing these files, contact us for help.
Supporting participation activities
We are learning from First Nations peoples, communities and organisations about their experiences, priorities and aspirations.
The Australian Government has allocated funding for activities that seek to improve participation of First Nations peoples in Future Drought Fund drought and climate resilience activities.
We have engaged First Nations suppliers to provide specialist knowledge and practical advice to help improve programs, policies and activities.
First Nations market research
Winangali, a First Nations organisation, engaged with First Nations peoples, communities and organisations across Australia.
The project explored experiences of dry times and priorities for the future.
The findings highlight how we can improve the way we communicate and deliver Future Drought Fund opportunities.
Future Drought Fund: What mob told us
Summary booklet of what we heard from First Nations communities.
If you have difficulty accessing these files, contact us for help.
Executive summary: Future Drought First Nations Market Research
Summary of key findings, implications and opportunities.
If you have difficulty accessing these files, contact us for help.
Desktop research
Terri Janke and Company, an Indigenous-owned consultancy, explored barriers and opportunities for drought resilience activities in First Nations communities.
The findings highlight practical ways to improve participation and access.
Drought Resilience and innovation in rural and remote First Nations communities
Gaps, barriers and opportunities - final report.
If you have difficulty accessing these files, contact us for help.
First Nations delivery partners
We work with 5 First Nations delivery partners in regions across Australia.
Funded through the Strengthening Drought Resilience on Country program, delivery partners support locally led drought and climate preparedness activities. This work reflects community priorities, needs and aspirations.
Learn more about the Strengthening Drought Resilience on Country program.
Work with a First Nations delivery partner
Find a delivery partner in your region:
| State or territory | Place-based regions | Delivery partners |
| VIC | Wotjobaluk Nations Country in western Victoria, including areas within the Wimmera region. Including Wotjobaluk, Jaadwa, Jadawadjali, Wergaia and Jupagulk Nations. | Barengi Gadjin Land Council Aboriginal Corporation RNTBC |
| WA & SA | Multiple arid and semi-arid regions of Western Australia and South Australia.
SA Far West Coast and Nullarbor regions, including the lands of the Mirning, Wirangu, Kokatha (Gugada), Yalata and Maralinga Tjarutja peoples. | K Farmer Dutjahn Foundation Limited |
| QLD | Wet Tropics Bioregion Including Palm Island and Yarrabah Aboriginal local government areas and the Cairns, Cassowary Coast, Douglas, Hinchinbrook and Tablelands local government areas. | Northern Aboriginal & Torres Strait Islander Health Alliance Limited |
| NT | Four coastal and island regions in Northern Territory Sea Country. Including Wadeye, the Tiwi Islands, South Goulburn Island and Groote Eylandt. | Tiwi Resources Pty Ltd |
| NSW | Murray Region Including the Traditional Lands of the Wiradjuri, Wolgalu, Ngarigo, Bangarang, Yorta Yorta, Barapa Barapa, Wamba Wamba, Nari Nari, Wadi Wadi and Mutthi Mutthi peoples. | Yarkuwa Indigenous Knowledge Centre Aboriginal Corporation |
More ways to get involved
There are many ways to participate in activities that can prepare your business, land and community for dry times.
Opportunities vary depending on your region and interests.
Explore what fits and connect in a way that supports your goals.
Connect with programs, support and resources:
- Local experts and knowledge brokers through regional hubs
- Regional drought resilience planning and investment in your area
- Mentoring, leadership training and small community grants
- Support for farm business planning and skills development
- Scholarships and learning opportunities
- Free online climate tools
- Lessons and resources collated by funded projects happening and completed across Australia.
Funding
Find details of the payment information as required under Section 27A of the Future Drought Fund Act 2019 below.
If you have difficulty accessing these files, contact us for help.
Future Drought Fund: First Nations market research
If you have difficulty accessing these files, contact us for help.