Country and Data: Applying Indigenous Data Sovereignty in Environmental Work

First Nations peoples have been sharing data since time immemorial. Today, as governments, researchers and environmental organisations increasingly collect and use data relating to Country, water, biodiversity and cultural knowledge, Indigenous Data Sovereignty is becoming critical to ensuring First Nations peoples retain authority over how Indigenous Data is accessed, interpreted, stored and shared. Yet many organisations continue to face practical challenges in understanding cultural authority, obtaining consent, and embedding governance processes that support First Nations decision-making.

This one-hour Law Way® Session will explore what Indigenous Data Sovereignty and Indigenous Data Governance mean in practice within environmental contexts. Drawing on water examples, the session will examine how organisations can build and strengthen frameworks, and apply Indigenous Data Sovereignty in their work.

Senior Solicitor, Emma Fitch, will provide practical guidance on:

•           What is Indigenous Data Sovereignty and Indigenous Data Governance?

•           Why these concepts matter in environmental work

•           The legal and ethical considerations when working with Indigenous Data

•           Practical tips for implementing Indigenous Data Sovereignty in environmental spaces.

This session is designed for government agencies, non-government organisations, and First Nations organisations working in environmental spaces, and will provide practical guidance for organisations seeking to engage with Indigenous Data respectfully and responsibly.