This project examined the suitability of a cultural and conservation economy model for sustainable development in rural and remote Indigenous communities in Australia.

The approach draws on the Canadian 'conservation economy' model, Ecotrust, and has been adapted for the Australian context through collaboration with Indigenous organisations.

A cultural and conservation economy supports long term, sustainable solutions for maintaining country and culture in Indigenous communities. The model applies a 'quadruple-bottom line' approach to economic development, which balances economic, environmental, social and cultural needs.

The Canadian Ecotrust approach was found to be highly relevant to sustainable development in rural and remote Indigenous communities in Australia, and an Australian version is now being piloted in the Kimberley region.

This new report also recommends changes to policy and key institutional arrangements.

More about A Cultural and Conservation Economy for Northern Australia project

Final Report
Download or order» A Cultural and Conservation Economy for Northern Australia Final Report
Fact Sheet
Download or order» A Cultural and Conservation Economy for Northern Australia Fact Sheet