The program is designed to boost school attendance and engagement, while providing skills in land and water management and creating pathways for future careers, including as Indigenous rangers.
Yorta Yorta Nation Aboriginal Corporation in Shepparton is one of 11 organisations across Australia that will receive support through the recent $7.6 million expansion round.
It will receive $940,000 to deliver culturally relevant education initiatives for First Nations school students.
Through the Yorta Yorta Junior Rangers program, students will engage with learning by incorporating Indigenous knowledge and on-Country learning experiences, such as land and cultural asset management.
“The ability for us to create and deliver educational content that aligns with both the curriculum and Yorta Yorta culture is a fantastic opportunity,” YYNAC Dharnya Centre business manager Garry Armstrong said.
“The YYNAC is most grateful for the expansion of the Junior Ranger Program and our important part in delivering this program both in the classroom and on-Country.”
Existing Junior Ranger programs across Australia have demonstrated success through locally led on-Country learning, improving attendance and retention rates of participants.
Senator Jana Stewart said Junior Ranger programs showed what happened when communities led and government backed them in.
“Our young ones thriving through culture, Country and connection,” she said.
“This investment will empower Yorta Yorta kids to build skills, strengthen identity and step into future careers, whether that’s as rangers, land managers, or leaders in their community.”
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