Southern Australian Aboriginal
Land & Sea Management Alliance Limited
Photo © Marcia Reiderer
is the Southern Australian Aboriginal Land and Sea Management Alliance.
We are an Aboriginal-led alliance that brings southern Nations together to strengthen care for, and healing of, land, sea and sky Country. We connect organisations, knowledge and effort so we can act together where it matters most.
Our work begins with the understanding that Country is living and interconnected, land, waters, skies, species, culture, knowledge and relationships. Caring for Country is grounded in responsibility, connection and cultural authority.
Across southern Australia, including Western Australia, South Australia, Victoria, Tasmania, the Australian Capital Territory and New South Wales, Aboriginal organisations are already leading this work. SAALSMA exists to back that leadership, strengthen connection, and create space for collective action.
When we come together, our voices carry further. Our work grows stronger. And the systems around us can begin to shift in ways that better support Country.
SAALSMA
WATCH FILM (1 min): Dr Doc Reynolds describes SAALSMA as an exciting opportunity for Aboriginal groups across southern Australia to have a collective voice at state, national and international levels, while sharing stories, culture and aspirations. He emphasises the importance of Aboriginal custodians being involved in decisions affecting Country, reminding us that small contributions can create significant change.
Our Vision
SAALSMA believes in a future where the lands and waters of southern Australia are healthy, respected, and cared for. We are inclusive and welcoming, building meaningful, enduring connections across communities, jurisdictions, and sectors. We measure our success by the strength and integrity of these relationships.
We aim high and act boldly, informed by members, to advocate for Country. Through strategic alliances and reciprocal partnerships, we elevate and connect organisations working toward shared outcomes, ensuring our efforts add value and reflect member priorities.
With a strong understanding of how decisions are made, deep community connection, and a commitment to keeping critical issues at the forefront, SAALSMA helps bring people together in ways that create lasting change for Country and community.
Our Purpose
We come together to care for land, sea and sky Country across southern Australia, guided by the cultural authority, knowledge and leadership of Aboriginal peoples.
Because no one Nation or organisation can carry this responsibility alone, we strengthen our collective voice and responsibility to Country and each other, so that Country and culture can thrive.
Our Values
Authority
We are guided by Elders, cultural governance & lived connection to Country.
Connection
We honour that everything is connected - land, sea, sky, species & people.
Integrity
We walk with honesty, care & accountability, protecting what is entrusted to us.
Collective
We stand together, strengthening our shared voice & acting with purpose across Nations for Country.
Self-determination
We walk alongside Aboriginal Nations as they lead, decide & act on Country.
News & Announcements
Our Board
Gary Goldsmith Co-Chair
Professor Emma Lee OAM Co-Chair