FCTOA Forum advances pathways to incorporation and whole-of-catchment planning

Traditional Owner representatives from across the Fitzroy Basin gathered on Darumbal Country (Rockhampton) on 29–30 April 2026 for the Fitzroy Catchment Traditional Owners Alliance’s (FCTOA) fifth forum, focused on progressing pathways toward incorporation and a Traditional Owner-led whole-of-catchment plan.

The FCTOA, now in its fourth year, advocates for action, knowledge sharing and collective decision making on whole-of-Basin issues.

The forum brought together representatives from the Basin’s Traditional Owner groups to discuss governance, water policy, cultural values, investment opportunities and long-term priorities for caring for Country across the Basin.

The forum reinforced the purpose of the Alliance as a collective advocacy platform for Traditional Owners across the Fitzroy Basin.

Discussions throughout Day 1 focused on the incorporation pathway for FCTOA, including governance models, representation, Free Prior and Informed Consent (FPIC), membership structures and long-term operational sustainability. Participants explored how FCTOA can advocate collectively while respecting the authority and self-determination of individual Nations and corporations.

Key themes emerging from the incorporation sessions included:

• culturally strong governance
• balanced representation and skills-based leadership
• consistent communication with member groups
• Elders and youth involvement
• long-term funding sustainability
• clear authority and accountability processes.

The forum also highlighted growing momentum behind FCTOA’s investment and partnership strategies. Presentation updates noted that securing future core investment would act as a critical trigger for incorporation and long-term establishment of the Alliance.

 
Day 2 turned toward development of a whole-of-catchment plan grounded in local Country-based priorities and Traditional Owner leadership. Participants shared case studies and experiences from across the Basin, including ranger programs, cultural burning, water monitoring, biodiversity restoration, co-management arrangements and data sovereignty initiatives.

A strong message throughout the forum was the importance of connecting local plans and aspirations into a coordinated Basin-wide framework.

Forum participants also discussed emerging opportunities associated with climate resilience, renewable energy, biodiversity restoration, water quality, environmental services and Indigenous-led investment pathways.

Water rights and cultural values remained a major focus, particularly during discussions with Assistant Minister Sean Dillon regarding the draft water plan and Traditional Owner economic and cultural interests in water management.

 
Throughout the forum, participants reinforced the importance of unity, cultural legitimacy, FPIC and ensuring Traditional Owners remain at the centre of decision making affecting Country.

Via the FCTOA’s regular forum evaluation, participants shared that the FCTOA’s fifth forum was “The best one we have had” and they are “Feeling great about FCTOA’s direction”.

Next steps include development of a draft constitution, continued engagement with Traditional Owner groups through FPIC processes, progressing investment alignment and further work toward a draft whole-of-catchment plan targeted for 2027.

The Working Group for the Fitzroy Catchment Traditional Owners Alliance (FCTOA) are thrilled to share that their sixth forum will be held again on Darumbal Country, Rockhampton on the 15-16 October 2026.

The April 2026 forum was made possible through the Queensland Government’s Reef Assist Traditional Owner Grant Program and is proudly supported by Greening Australia as the FCTOA’s friendly host, and by the Tropical North Queensland Drought Hub.
 
Want to learn more about the FCTOA, or interested in partnering or sponsoring forums? Email [email protected]
 

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