First Nations leaders encouraged to apply to join Fisheries Research and Development Corporation's Indigenous Reference Group
Opportunities for First Nations leaders to join the Fisheries Research and Development Corporation's (FRDC) Indigenous Reference Group are currently on offer, positions which may be of particular interest to those passionate about weaving traditional ecological knowledge into cutting-edge research and development.
There are eight committee member positions available for people eager to shape the future of sustainable fishing and aquaculture in Australia.
FRDC is dedicated to investing in advancing the aspirations of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples through research, development, and extension (RD&E), with the Indigenous Reference Group (IRG) to comprise of people from diverse backgrounds with expertise in Australian fishing and aquaculture.
The FRDC was established in 2010 after consultation with Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander communities and has played a vital role in weaving Traditional Ecological Knowledge (TEK) and perspectives into Australia's fisheries and aquaculture sectors.
Furthermore, the IRG oversees project progress and offers technical guidance to the FRDC on broader issues and initiatives.
Set to commence this year, the revitalised and refreshed IRG will be committed to aligning fisheries RD&E with the needs of communities. It has been established to provide advice to the FRDC on RD&E needs for First Nations people to help advance both their interests and benefits from fishing and aquaculture.
Committee members' contributions will include elevating the significance and understanding of Indigenous fisheries needs to markedly boost RD&E outputs; promote educational and development opportunities to increase Indigenous participation in fisheries research and management; and offer in-depth advice to the FRDC on Indigenous RD&E whilst aligning with the aspirations of Indigenous fisheries.
Along with advocating and promoting the integration of Indigenous perspectives into FRDC's research projects and initiatives, committee members will assist in developing strategies which align with the organisation's commitment to First Nations empowerment and collaboration.
Beyond direct funding from and advising the FRDC, the IRG has collaborated with a number of organisations including the Indigenous Land and Sea Corporation, CSIRO, the Department of Climate Change, Environment, Energy and Water, as well as state and territory governments, to support Indigenous-focused RD&E efforts.
Committee members will be appointed on a five-year term, with individuals passionate about making a difference in Indigenous fisheries and aquaculture encouraged to apply.
Applications close Thursday 22 August.
More information can be obtained and submissions can be made via Committee Members - FRDC Indigenous Reference Group (ethicaljobs.com.au)
This report was produced with the support of the Fisheries Research and Development Corporation.