Page 1 Page 2 Page 3 Page 4 Page 5 Page 6 Page 7 Page 8 Page 9 Page 10 Page 11 Page 12 Page 13 Page 14 Page 15 Page 16 Page 17 Page 18 Page 19 Page 20 Page 21 Page 22 Page 23 Page 24 Page 25 Page 26 Page 27 Page 28 Page 29 Page 30 Page 31 Page 32 Page 33 Page 34 Page 35 Page 36 Page 37 Page 38 Page 39 Page 40 Page 41 Page 42 Page 43 Page 44 Page 45 Page 46 Page 47 Page 48 Page 49 Page 50 Page 51 Page 52 Page 53 Page 54 Page 55 Page 56 Page 57 Page 58 Page 59 Page 60 Page 61 Page 62[ 17 ] An investment in human potential: the benefits of Indigenous ranger programs As real and culturally meaningful jobs in areas where employment is difficult to find, ranger jobs bring great benefits – not only to individual rangers, but also to their families and communities. A study of federally-funded ranger programs shows that they are an employment success, with retention rates of 80% and a growing proportion of women employed as rangers. 34% of all positions and nearly 50% of casual ranger jobs are held by women.17 The Menzies School of Health Research found a link between participation in land and sea management activities and better health outcomes in Aboriginal communities.18 Studies show significant reductions in alcohol-related problems and welfare dependency in association with ranger programs, as well as improved levels of education and health. But it’s not just individual rangers who benefit. There’s less social unrest and substance abuse in communities, kids are more motivated at school because they see meaningful role models who offer hope and inspiration, and ranger programs provide an opportunity for the whole community to reconnect with their cultural heritage and priorities. Some communities have established junior ranger programs to encourage children and teenagers to spend time in the bush, connecting with older generations who can thus fulfill obligations to pass on knowledge and culture. The economic case is just as compelling. An analysis commissioned by the Office of Prime Minister and Cabinet found that a $35.2 million investment from government generated social, economic, cultural and environmental outcomes valued at $96.5 million.19 That’s a three-to-one return on investment. And let’s not forget the environmental benefits. Under the Create Ranger Parks proposal, these rangers will be managing and protecting this incredible land and controlling feral animals and noxious weeds, ensuring future generations can enjoy these protected areas and the quality of life they provide. Rangers are one of the great success stories of recent times. They are working to close the gap between Aboriginal and non-Aboriginal Australians, and have emerged as a real win for everyone. “Living and working on country is like medicine for my people. Being a ranger is meaningful work that makes us feel good about ourselves. It is vital that our young people know their country and care for it. Ranger jobs are giving us hope for the future.” -  Nyaparu Rose, CEO, Nyangumarta Warrarn Aboriginal Corporation An important role of Indigenous rangers is caring for cultural sites, such as this Aboriginal painting on the proposed Doolgunna Ranger Park. David Blood