Community-led solutions are more likely to succeed when First Nations organisations have the authority, capability and resources to lead them.
The Paul Ramsay Foundation has committed $6 million to support First Nations-led organisations across the Northern Territory, the Torres Strait, Tasmania, regional and remote South Australia, and regional and remote Queensland.
Grants of up to $500,000 will fund projects that strengthen governance, leadership, workforce capability, youth development, cultural programs, service delivery and caring for the country.
The investment reflects a growing recognition across the philanthropic sector that sustainable outcomes are achieved by backing local leadership rather than imposing externally designed solutions.
Strong local leadership drives better outcomes
First Nations-led organisations bring deep cultural knowledge, trusted relationships, and a clear understanding of their communities’ priorities.
They understand the challenges their communities face but also the strengths that can be built upon, including culture, language, connection to country, and established community networks.
This local knowledge helps organisations design services that are more relevant, culturally appropriate, and responsive to local needs.
It is particularly important in regional and remote communities, where mainstream services may be limited or fail to reflect local circumstances.
Building organisational capacity is an investment
Many of the funded projects focus on strengthening the organisations themselves rather than funding short-term programs alone.
Support will be directed towards improving governance, leadership capability, workforce development, financial management, and operational systems.
These investments recognise that strong organisations are essential to delivering sustainable community outcomes.
Without capable boards, skilled staff, sound governance, and effective business systems, even well-designed community programs can struggle to achieve lasting impact.
By strengthening organisational foundations, First Nations organisations are better positioned to set their own priorities, reduce reliance on external providers, and plan for the future.
Governance strengthens self-determination
Several funded organisations will use the grants to strengthen governance structures that support community decision-making.
Mer Gedkem Le Torres Strait Islanders Corporation will build governance capability to help Meriam people manage their traditional lands and waters.
Akeyulerre Aboriginal Corporation will strengthen cultural governance and leadership to support Arrernte self-determination.
The Murin Association will establish a governance committee for people living on the Thamarrurr Homelands, while the Arafura Swamp Rangers Aboriginal Corporation will develop a governance framework grounded in Yolngu culture.
These projects recognise that governance is more than compliance. It enables communities to make decisions, protect cultural priorities, and exercise authority over their own futures.
Developing the next generation of leaders
Youth leadership is another major focus of the funding. Deadly Inspiring Youth Doing Good will expand its Good Vibrations program in Cairns to mentor emerging First Nations leaders.
Jika Kangka Gununamanda Limited will deliver culturally grounded leadership and governance training for young people on Mornington Island.
The National Aboriginal Community Controlled Health Organisation will strengthen leadership pathways and mentor future leaders across the community-controlled health sector.
These initiatives aim to build long-term leadership capacity while encouraging young people to contribute to their communities through governance, employment, and community service.
Caring for country creates wider community benefits
Several projects combine environmental stewardship with economic development and cultural preservation.
The Living Knowledge Network, through Firesticks Alliance, will strengthen place-based land management in Tasmania and North Queensland using First Nations knowledge and practices.
Wik Projects will build the capability of the Wik Tribal Council to manage the Wik Indigenous Protected Area.
Jabalbina Yalanji Aboriginal Corporation will strengthen leadership, financial sustainability, and cultural governance for the Eastern Kuku Yalanji people.
These projects demonstrate how caring for country can generate environmental, cultural, and economic outcomes simultaneously while creating employment opportunities and preserving traditional knowledge.
Stronger organisations build stronger communities
Other grants focus on improving community services and creating local employment opportunities.
Gunawuna Jungai will work alongside service providers to improve support for the Doomadgee community.
The Umoona Community Council will strengthen service delivery, financial sustainability, and employment opportunities in Coober Pedy and Umoona.
Milindji Aboriginal Corporation will expand professional development for its directors, staff, and members in Gapuwiyak.
Weetapoona Aboriginal Corporation will appoint a general manager to implement its long-term strategic plans.
Papunya Tjupi Art Centre Aboriginal Corporation will enhance its youth men’s centre, creating more opportunities for young men to reconnect with country through music, sculpture and cultural activities.
Although each project addresses different community priorities, they share a common goal: strengthening local organisations that support long-term community wellbeing.
Philanthropy works best when it backs community leadership
The funding highlights an important shift in philanthropic practice. Rather than designing solutions for communities, more funders are recognising the value of investing in organisations that already hold community trust, cultural knowledge and local leadership.
Flexible, long-term funding enables organisations to strengthen governance, retain staff, improve systems, and plan beyond short grant cycles. Sustainable change is more likely when communities lead their own development and philanthropy supports that leadership.
Read also: Overrepresentation of First Nations children in care remains unresolved
Ritchelle is Content Team Manager at Akolade, producing stories for Australia's not-for-profit sector at Third Sector.
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