First Nations
The Marine Bioproducts CRC recognises the importance of First Nations knowledge, leadership and participation in shaping a sustainable and innovative marine bioproducts sector. Through respectful partnerships, co-designed initiatives and meaningful engagement, we work with First Nations peoples, organisations and communities to create shared opportunities, support First Nations-led innovation, and deliver long term impact.
Cultural Disclaimer
This website may contain images, names, or voices of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people who have passed away. We acknowledge and respect First Nations cultural protocols. Our work spans across Sea Country and we recognise the deep cultural, spiritual and custodial connections people hold with the waters and places. We advise visitors to proceed with care and respect.
Language
For consistency, Marine Bioproducts CRC uses the term First Nations throughout this website to collectively refer to Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples, acknowledging the diversity of cultures, languages and Nations across Country.
Our Purpose
To empower First Nations communities through meaningful engagement that builds capacity, supports capability development, and encourages active and sustainable economic participation in the marine bioproducts industry.
Our Vision
Our vision is to walk alongside First Nations peoples and Communities to care for Sea Country through respect, co-design and shared knowledge. By bringing together Traditional Knowledge and modern science, we support innovative, culturally led solutions and projects that strengthen marine ecosystems and create positive lasting benefits for Sea Country peoples and communities.
Our Values
Respect
Honouring First Nations rights, knowledge, and custodianship of Sea Country.
Trust
We nurture trust through cultural respect, transparent dialogue, and consistent, honest action.
Cultural Integrity
We will show that we honour and protect First Nations cultural knowledge, protocols, and practices in all that we do.
Caring for County
We respect and uphold First Nations custodianship by caring for Sea Country and all it sustains.
Self-Determination
We uphold the right of First Nations peoples to lead decisions about their futures, communities, and Sea Country.
Sustainability
We are committed to long-term environmental, cultural, economic, and community sustainability in all we do.
MBCRC First Nations Artwork
A Sea of Culture to Share
Sea Country breathes with stories. Its tides carry knowledge. Its fish, oils, and seaweeds nourish body, spirit, and community.
For First Nations peoples, these waters are sacred and sustaining — woven into culture, ceremony, and identity.
We walk alongside Traditional Owners in respect, listening to their stories and honouring their customs. Through shared knowledge and collective effort, we protect and preserve the ocean’s gifts, supporting both ancient wisdom and new generations who seek to build their futures with care for the sea.
Together, let’s ensure their abundance for future generations, while also supporting new voices and businesses to grow with respect and responsibility.
A map of Australia is overlaid using linework to show connections around this country.
Meet the artist
Elaine Chambers-Hegarty
Elaine Chambers‑Hegarty is an Aboriginal graphic designer and artist with cultural connections to the Koa (Guwa), Kuku Yalanji, and Barada Barna peoples. Working through her business, Cultural Edge Designs, Elaine translates stories and concepts into visual design which is represented through the commissioned artwork A Sea of Culture to Share, created for MBCRC.
First Nations Resources
First Nations Engagement Strategic Plan
The Marine Bioproducts CRC First Nations Engagement Strategic Plan guides our commitment to meaningful partnerships with First Nations Peoples. Grounded in respect for Sea Country, it supports First Nations leadership, participation, and innovation while fostering culturally informed collaboration, capability development, and shared outcomes across the marine bioproducts sector.
Featured Partner Story
Lanje: A Story of Sea, Science, And Shared Vision
Lanje is Marine Bioproducts CRC flagship First Nations Program 3 project, bringing together Sea Country, cultural knowledge, and marine bioproduct innovation.
First Nations Partnership and Engagement
The Marine Bioproducts CRC engages with Sea Country communities across Australia through respectful partnerships and engagement informed by local knowledge, culture, and connection to Sea Country.
Opportunities
Opportunities with the Marine Bioproducts CRC will look different for every community. They are shaped by Sea Country, local knowledge, access to resources and individual and community aspirations.
We welcome Sea Country Peoples and communities who are interested in learning more about potential pathways for engagement and collaboration to connect with our First Nations Engagement Advisor, Carron Daveson (carron@mbcrc.com), for an initial conversation.
First Nations Stories