Source from 14 May 2026. I haven't checked if any new IPAs or Key Biodiversity Areas have been established after this date

Proponents of Indigenous Protected Area (IPA) say they can empower Indigenous Australians as decision-makers in land management, combining traditional ecological knowledge with conservation goals.

IPAs now account for 54% of Australia’s progress toward protecting 30% of its territory by 2030

While research shows every $1 invested in IPAs yields up to $3.40 in social, economic and environmental returns, advocates stress that Indigenous communities still need meaningful, sustained support.

[...]

O’Leary of Country Needs People acknowledges the system isn’t perfect, and says successful IPAs rely on careful planning, support and engagement. But, he says, they represent a critical tool that’s being used right now.

“Yes, there are a lot of things to be improved,” he adds. “But this is happening on the ground now in real time. It’s not being theorized in academic papers or in international forums alone. It’s actually happening on the ground for people, and that is where the rubber hits the road.”