Heritage

Grants and funding

Indigenous Heritage Program

About the Indigenous Heritage Program

The Indigenous Heritage Program (IHP) is an ongoing competitive annual grants program which provides $3.645 million to support the identification, conservation, and promotion of heritage places important to Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people.

As well as delivering strong heritage outcomes, the Indigenous Heritage Program supports the achievement of the Government's Indigenous policy objectives and the Council of Australian Governments' (COAG) commitment to Closing the Gap on Indigenous Disadvantage.

Participants in IHP projects have gained employment, as well as marketable skills which contribute to greater economic participation through training in site survey and recording techniques, database management and fencing.

IHP projects contribute to safe and supportive communities and community cohesion through enhanced respect for the cultural knowledge of Elders and reinvigorated pride in culture. By assisting Indigenous people to access their traditional lands to undertake cultural heritage activities, and improving pride in culture and self-esteem, IHP projects have delivered improved health outcomes and healthier lifestyles for participants.

The IHP was identified as one of the 'things that work' in the Productivity Commissions' report 'Overcoming Indigenous Disadvantage: Key Indicators 2011'. We encourage projects that, in addition to the proposed heritage outcomes, deliver positive social, cultural, environmental, and economic benefits to the Indigenous community.

The IHP has received international recognition in academic journals and through papers presented overseas by heritage professionals involved in IHP projects. The Jawoyn rock art gallery which featured on Oprah Winfrey's 'Ultimate Adventure in Australia' was rediscovered through an IHP project.

Incorporated organisations can apply for projects up to $100,000 (GST exclusive). Individual applicants will generally be eligible for funding up to $5000. Applications for larger amounts may be considered where the applicant demonstrates special circumstances or a genuine requirement for additional funds. Eligible organisations may also apply for triennial funding up to $250,000 (GST exclusive) through one application, but with annual reporting on outcomes. The Indigenous Heritage Program Guide for Applicants provides details on funding conditions.

The IHP may also help identify places likely to have outstanding Indigenous heritage value to Australia suitable for inclusion on the National Heritage List. If you are interested in National Heritage Listing please call the department's Heritage Division freecall number on 1800 982 280 before completing your submission to discuss thresholds, processes and implications for listing.

2012-13 Funding Round

The 2012-13 IHP funding round will be launched soon.

2011-12 IHP Guide for Applicants

The 2011-2012 Guide for Applicants is provided for information for those who may wish to apply in future funding rounds

Previous IHP funding

Follow the links below for information about projects funded under previous rounds of the Indigenous Heritage Program:

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