Aboriginal Water and Environment Advisory Group

The Aboriginal Water and Environmental Advisory Group (AWEAG) was established to guarantee the incorporation of First Nations people’s traditional knowledge and values.
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About AWEAG

The Department of Water and Environmental Regulation (the department) recognises the significance of forming partnerships with First Nations people because of their profound cultural knowledge and connection to Country and living waters.

The Aboriginal Water and Environmental Advisory Group (AWEAG) was established to guarantee the incorporation of First Nations people’s traditional knowledge and values.

AWEAG offers strategic counsel to the department, aiming to achieve procedural fairness and equity in sustainable water and environmental practises for all. This involves providing feedback and analysis on the department’s strategies, programs and projects, as well as legislation.

Currently, AWEAG is co-chaired by the Director General of the department and one Aboriginal community member, nominated by AWEAG. There are about 10 members, incorporating the goal of gender balance from each region. AWEAG meets roughly quarterly. The meeting is for a full day, where previous meeting minutes and actions are discussed, followed by a curated list of agenda items sent through by internal and external staff.

See the meeting schedule for 2024