JASON HUNTER JOINS FEDERAL FIGHT TO PROTECT INDIGENOUS LAND AND WATER
BY ASAD KHAN
Nyikina, Nyul Nyul, and Worora man Jason Hunter is advocating for stronger Indigenous representation in federal politics.
Supporting the Indigenous Aboriginal Party of Australia (IAPA), he aligns with a movement originally founded by Barkindji people in Wilcannia, who have campaigned to protect the Baaka/Darling River.
Mr Hunter is now focused on a similar struggle in the West Kimberley, where U.S.-based company Black Mountain intends to drill thousands of fracking wells near the Martuwarra/Fitzroy River, a site of deep cultural and environmental significance to Indigenous communities.
According to him, mainstream political parties have failed to deliver meaningful change for Indigenous Australians, particularly in the wake of the unsuccessful Voice referendum.
“We want to take a seat at the table rather than being a voice to government,” he said.
“When people see us protecting rivers, keeping families together, and creating jobs, they will understand that we are not seeking special treatment. It is about justice for First Nations people, and we just want to try and hold this country together.”
Hunter's campaign focuses on advocating for stronger protections for sacred land and water, improving educational opportunities, reforming the justice system, and increasing support for Indigenous-owned businesses.
Listen to Ngaarda Media’s Asad Khan speak with Jason Hunter: