Backing Country: Investing in Aboriginal projects in Western Sydney

The NSW Government has made $1.17 million available to support local councils to deliver Aboriginal projects in western Sydney.

The grant is being run as part of the Cumberland Plain Conservation Plan, which is supporting the delivery of much-needed new housing, jobs and infrastructure in western Sydney, while protecting the region’s biodiversity.

The Caring for Country Aboriginal Outcomes Strategy is a key part of the Cumberland Plain Conservation Plan, that is fostering meaningful partnerships that put Aboriginal people at the forefront of implementation.

The Caring for Country grant program supports councils to collaborate with Traditional Custodians and local communities to deliver on-ground initiatives that recognise Aboriginal culture and heritage.

This NSW Government-funded program is being outworked through Western Sydney Regional Organisation of Councils. Funding will be provided over the next month.

The grant funding will help bring to life important projects including:

• staff training,
• establishing meaningful engagement with Aboriginal culture,
• public artwork,
• and environmentally focussed initiatives like bush tucker gardens, removal of invasive species, conducting cultural burns and waterway conservation.

Secretary of the Department of Planning, Housing and Infrastructure, Kiersten Fishburn, said:

“The Caring for Country grant program is empowering councils with the resources to deliver projects that are grounded in collaboration with Traditional Custodians and Aboriginal communities in the Cumberland Plain area.”

“The awarding of funds across 7 councils marks another important milestone in rolling out the Caring for Country Aboriginal Outcomes Strategy.”

“It is wonderful to see such strong interest and engagement from the councils, Traditional Custodians and local communities. We look forward to seeing these meaningful partnerships take shape.”