IMOS Indigenous Partnerships
IMOS recognises Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples as the first marine scientists and custodians of Sea Country. Their deep and continuous knowledge of ocean conditions, patterns, habitats, species and environmental change offers critical insights about our oceans. By integrating Traditional Ecological Knowledge with innovative technology, IMOS aims to provide a fuller understanding of Australia’s marine environment.
What is IMOS?
Australia’s Integrated Marine Observing System (IMOS) is a national program that helps monitor and understand ocean conditions, enabling marine research that delivers benefits across Australian society, its environments, and its economy.
IMOS collects data using a wide range of monitoring equipment across coastal and open oceans.
The data is then reviewed for accuracy and uploaded to the IMOS Australian Ocean Data Network (AODN), where it’s made freely available to support First Nations communities, marine research, government, and industry.
Our goal
A key focus for IMOS in the coming years is to build and expand our approach to observing Sea Country. This includes growing partnerships with Sea Ranger groups and organisations, and working to ensure First Nations priorities are reflected in the data we collect and share.
To help lead and coordinate this work, IMOS has appointed an Indigenous Partnerships Coordinator, Tonya Grant, who is hosted within the Indigenous Partnerships Team at the Australian Institute of Marine Science (AIMS).
Tonya’s role involves facilitating two-way communication to ensure Traditional Knowledge and perspectives are part of the conversation on ocean conditions, ocean populations, ocean processes, and coastal habitats. She will also help develop new partnerships and manage Free, Prior and Informed Consent and Indigenous Cultural and Intellectual Property in IMOS projects.
Get involved
If you would like to learn more about IMOS activities or register your interest in partnering with IMOS please provide us with your contact information and monitoring priorities.
