Dhimurru Aboriginal Corporation and the University of Sydney have partnered to begin a landmark collaboration focused on Indigenous knowledge-led, academia-supported approaches to environmental monitoring and research. Supported by researchers from the Schools of Life and Environmental Sciences and GeoSciences (Faculty of Science), Faculty of  Engineering and the Sydney Environment Institute, the three-day workshop focussed on developing collaborative ranger-led research that responds directly to on-Country priorities. Projects will be shaped by Yolŋu knowledge systems and governance from the outset, with cultural authority and data sovereignty embedded in all stages of the process and outputs. Rather than adapting existing academic models, the partnership will build approaches that reflect how Dhimurru works on Country.

Participants progressed a proposal for a pioneering ranger-led platform that will integrate field-based knowledge, environmental monitoring tools, AI, western scientific methods and traditional knowledges, with appropriate cultural governances and community control embedded throughout. The focus is on solutions that support real-time decision-making and address on-ground management challenges, while ensuring that knowledge and authority remain with community. 

Stephina Salee, CEO of Dhimurru Aboriginal Corporation, described the foundation of the partnership:

“Real change comes when cultural knowledge is treated as equal authority and our people lead alongside academia, allowing gaps with community to begin closing and ensuring the work remains grounded in Country. This partnership is founded on respect, shared values, and a commitment to doing the work the right way.”

Professor Carolyn Hogg, Professor of Biodiversity & Conservation in the School of Life and Environmental Sciences, highlighted the collaborative approach:

“By merging western technologies with cultural knowledges, we are working together to find solutions to on-ground issues, the aim is for easy-to-use solutions that to lead to impact and change.” 

The February workshop marks the beginning of a long-term collaboration grounded in co-design, shared decision-making and respect for Yolŋu leadership in land and sea management. Future work will continue to be developed jointly, ensuring research aligns with Dhimurru’s priorities and delivers tangible outcomes for Country and community.

The workshop was co-funded by the School of Geosciences, the School of Life and Environmental Sciences, and supported by the Sydney Environment Institute.