Keeping the desert connected

Across vast stretches of desert Country, rangers are leading right-way fire, caring for threatened species, strengthening cultural knowledge, and building pathways for future generations.

This year, the IDA celebrated 10 years since our first meeting, bringing hundreds of desert rangers together at Uluru to share stories, knowledge and connection. We continue to expand opportunities through programs like Right-Way Desert Fire and the Regional Support Unit, and other new initiatives such as supporting ranger teams to engage with emerging nature markets on their own terms.

Under the leadership of our first Indigenous CEO from the desert, Sam Murray, and an Indigenous-led Board, the IDA remains true to our values — Genuine, Collaborative, Empowering, Respectful and Doing things the right way. Together, we’re strengthening desert resilience, amplifying desert voices, and ensuring that Country, Culture and Community thrive — now and for generations to come.

"This alliance now has 29 members, a strong indication that the IDA presents value and opportunities that are needed. From its Regional Support Unit and Right-Way Desert Fire program to the committed IDA board and staff team working hard to strengthen our sector for the long term, we can see firsthand that the IDA is delivering on its vision of desert rangers working together to look after desert Country." – Boyd Elston, IDA Chairperson