Welcome to the First Nations Water Branch Engagement Hub

First Nations peoples are the Traditional Custodians of Australia’s lands, skies and waters. Water is central to Culture, Country, identity, community wellbeing and economic opportunities.

The First Nations Water Branch works in partnership with First Nations peoples to strengthen their ownership of water and increase their involvement in water management, governance and decision-making across Australia.

Our work is guided by the Closing the Gap Priority Reforms. This includes supporting shared decision-making, strengthening the First Nations community-controlled sector, improving government practices and increasing access to information and data.

We are committed to the principles of Free, Prior and Informed Consent and to respecting Indigenous Cultural and Intellectual Property. First Nations voices, knowledge, rights and priorities are central to our work.

About this Engagement Hub

This Engagement Hub brings together information about Australian Government First Nations water initiatives. You can use the Hub to:

  • learn about First Nations water programs and policies
  • follow the progress of current projects
  • access information and resources
  • find opportunities to participate in consultations and engagement activities
  • learn how First Nations peoples are influencing water policy and decision-making.

Current Projects

Murray–Darling Basin Aboriginal Water Entitlements Program

The $100 million Murray–Darling Basin (Basin) Aboriginal Water Entitlements Program (program) is a landmark Australian Government commitment to increase water ownership by First Nations peoples and to support their long-term spiritual, Cultural, environmental, social and economic wellbeing. The program is being delivered by the Australian Government Department of Climate Change, Energy, the...
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Murray–Darling Basin First Nations Enduring Water Holding Arrangements

For generations, Murray–Darling Basin (Basin) Basin First Nations Peoples have called for greater ownership and control of water. The Australian Government and First Nations Peoples are working together to develop enduring arrangements that will enable First Nations Peoples to own, manage and make decisions about water. The water entitlements will be purchased through the Murray–Darlin...
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