This session showcases an innovative, large-scale conservation initiative to restore internationally significant wetlands return land to Traditional Custodians and develop diverse and sustainable income streams. The 87,000 ha Gayini Nimmie-Caira project, Australia, saw land/water rights purchased from willing sellers by government, to restore the conservation and cultural values. A consortium of Traditional Custodians, conservation NGOs and research institutions successfully tendered to lease and manage this large-scale restoration initiative. An adjoining large wetland complex has recently been purchased using an impact investing model. The significance of the project will be outlined from the perspective of government, Traditional Owner and conservation NGOs and the applicability of this model for regions of the world where there is a desire to restore Traditional Custodians’ rights and ownership of land, water stressed environments, using multiple financial instruments.
