A Cultural and Conservation Economy for Northern Australia

Abstract

This report presents the outcomes of a collaborative research project to test the applicability of the concept of a ‘conservation economy’ in Australia, and the relevance of the ‘Ecotrust model’ to foster the emergence of such an economy. The specific objectives of the study were:

* To investigate and report on the relevance of the concept of Ecotrust Canada’s ‘conservation economy’ model for Indigenous and rural sustainable community development in Australia, particularly in Northern Australia.

* To investigate and report on the opportunities and any limitations within the current Australian institutional settings, particularly of Northern Australia, that would affect the application of the principles and components of Ecotrust Canada’s model.