Save the date for IDA Conference 2026!
10-12 November @ Uluru
The IDA Conference is the largest gathering of Indigenous desert rangers in Australia. The Conference will focus on strengthening the alliance, yarning about matters of regional importance, sharing information and most importantly, connecting with each other.
This year's theme is Our Stories, Our Country, Our Climate Future. We are all on this climate journey together. It’s important that we keep our culture strong along the way.
Expressions of interest for Indigenous desert ranger teams are now open, and can be filled out here. For enquiries please contact ida2026conference@indigenousdesertalliance.com.
Save the date and download the event poster here.
See below for a draft agenda.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does it cost to attend?
Attendance to the conference is free, however all attendees will need to cover their own travel and expenses. Meals on conference days (Tues, Weds & Thurs) will be included, but accommodation and other meal costings are not.
There will be a charter plane from Perth for those coming from the west, costings for this to be confirmed.
The IDA is monitoring the fuel crisis and recognises that this may impact some of the more remote groups. We are currently investigating options into how we may provide support, but cannot guarantee anything at this stage.
How many people can we bring?
Attendance is limited to a single carload per ranger team (5 people). Numbers are limited due to venue capacity, the growth of the sector and an increase in the number of ranger teams we are working alongside.
Attendance of Indigenous rangers will be prioritised, along with the necessary support such as ranger coordinators. Teams can bring Traditional Owners or Directors for example if appropriate, within the single carload. Unfortunately, children will not be permitted under any circumstance. All other attendees will be by invitation only, at the discretion of the IDA CEO.
Where does everyone stay?
There are numerous accommodation options at Yulara, from the campgrounds through to various hotels. All accommodation has been pre-reserved and will be assigned on a first come, first served basis during the registration process. Attendees will be invoiced for their chosen option.
What's the conference about?
The agenda is currently under development, and is based on participant feedback following the 2024 conference and priorities that we are hearing from members and ranger teams.
The Ranger-to-Ranger and Elder-to-Elder sessions remain a staple item in the agenda. See above for a basic draft agenda.
Will there be a Ranger of the Year Awards again?
Yes! We are excited to host our 3rd IDA Ranger of the Year Awards - nominations will open soon, stay tuned!
What about field trips?
Yes, we have five coaches reserved to take attendees out on field trips into the IPA and into the Park. Numbers are limited, and we will do our best to manage this effectively.
How do we register?
Registrations are now open via this form.
