Aboriginal fishing projects to get $500k
Australia’s New South Wales government is investing further in boosting fishing for Aboriginal people, with a fund worth $500,000 on offer to projects.
The Aboriginal Fishing Trust Fund (AFTF) is designed to provide opportunities for Aboriginal communities in commercial fishing, tourism, Aboriginal cultural fishing and research and education related to fisheries resources throughout NSW.
NSW Department of Primary Industries and Regional Development Deputy Secretary, Fisheries and Forestry, Sean Sloan revealed that, so far, the fund has provided just over $1.4 million for 43 projects across the region since 2017.
He said: “We recognise the significance fishing has to Aboriginal communities and the NSW government will continue to support the Trust, to ensure it promotes Aboriginal cultural fishing and provides fishing related economic opportunities for Aboriginal people.
“These grants can significantly assist Aboriginal commercial fisheries and tourism related businesses, as well as fisheries research and cultural education that aim to promote and protect Aboriginal cultural fishing across NSW.”
Last year, eight applications were supported, with $223,145 allocated for projects covering inland and coastal regions to enhance, maintain and protect Aboriginal cultural fishing and provide for economic opportunities for communities associated with fisheries resources.
The approved projects included a commercial fishing project to support the purchase of capital equipment for an existing family operated coastal Aboriginal commercial fishing business.
Other approved projects included funding four Aboriginal cultural fishing camps and workshops across NSW.
Sean added: “The protection and enhancement of Aboriginal cultural fishing and economic outcomes related to the aquatic resource in NSW is a key priority of the NSW Government.
“It is fantastic to see the intent of the Trust Fund being realised and we look to continue supporting projects that make a meaningful difference to Aboriginal communities across the state.
“We encourage Aboriginal businesses and communities who could benefit from an Aboriginal Fishing Trust Fund grant or loan to apply in the current round.”
The call for applications for the seventh funding round from the AFTF will close on February 16th, 2025.
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