First Nations

First Nations Engagement Group

Southern NSW Innovation Hub has established a First Nations Engagement Group in recognition of the central role of First Nations peoples as custodians of Country and holders of deep ecological, cultural and community knowledge.

The Group provides culturally informed, place-based advice to the Hub, helping ensure our activities, research and investment decisions are respectful, inclusive and aligned with First Nations priorities. Its guidance strengthens genuine partnership, shared decision‑making and long‑term benefit for First Nations peoples.

What the Group advises on

The First Nations Engagement Group formally provides advice on:

• Cultural, economic and social resilience of Aboriginal people in the face of climate change and drought
• Specific vulnerabilities and needs of Aboriginal communities during climate change, particularly drought
• Opportunities for new Hub activities and the rollout of existing projects
• Inclusion of traditional ecological knowledge in scientific research and decision‑making related to drought and climate resilience
• The role and function of First Nations Engagement Officers
• Review and recommendations on the Hub’s Framework for working with First Nations communities, for consideration by the Hub Board

How the Group contributes

The First Nations Engagement Group also supports the development of strong collaborative links with community, industry, government agencies and research institutes. Its insights help co‑design the Hub’s activities within the Social and Cultural Resilience – First Nations Impact Area of our Investment Plan.