How we’re different

Indigenous-led conservation

The IDA Foundation is unique. Created by desert rangers for desert rangers. With your support, we:

• Provide funding matched to Indigenous-led priorities, targeting critical gaps where other funding isn't available or additional funding is needed.
• Support self-determination, respecting and acknowledging the leadership that Indigenous desert people have shown in caring for their country for 65,000 years.
• Provide wrap around support. Through our strong network with desert rangers, we engage early to support the development of fundable project proposals. Our team works closely with successful applicants to provide support in delivering projects and acquitting funding, ensuring transparency in budgeting and reporting.

A profound purpose

The following project was made possible with support from the Indigenous Desert Alliance Foundation.

During the 2023 Kalyuku Ninti trip, 59 traditional owners from Martu and Kulyakartu native title determinations visited Kiriwirri. This rain-making yinta (permanent waterhole) holds a deep cultural and spiritual significance for Martu. For siblings and Elders, Muuki, Meridoo, and Nola, this waterhole is home as it is one of the water places they grew up at while walking across the vast desert with their family.

"I feel so good to come home and show my family where we lived. Teaching and showing them where we walked a long time ago, and our knowledge of the water places." Nola, Pujiman (desert-born) Elder.

The visit held a profound purpose for the Elders, as it provided the opportunity to share their (ninti) knowledge of this place with the younger generations and pass on the responsibility to care for the Country. For the younger generations, the visit allowed them to reconnect with their ancestors and reset their spirit, giving them the strength to continue to carry their land, their old people and their heritage for future generations.