In search of local voices: indigenous knowledge and disaster governance in Australiarethinking fire policy through epistemic justice

This report examines the integration of Indigenous fire management practices, particularly cultural burning, into contemporary disaster governance in Australia. It explores how the limited inclusion of Indigenous knowledge systems in national bushfire management frameworks has contributed to limited policy effectiveness and analyzes the institutional, knowledge-related, and participatory challenges that influence the broader adoption of cultural burning. Drawing on case studies and development policy approaches, the report proposes a set of policy recommendationsincluding formal recognition of cultural burning, stronger Indigenous engagement in governance processes, and initiatives to strengthen capacityto support collaborative knowledge development and improve fire management resilience. Grounded in research on knowledge inclusion and diverse epistemological approaches, the report underscores the importance of practical and sustained integration over purely symbolic involvement. Ultimately, it suggests the need for greater alignment of bushfire policy with Indigenous perspectives as a step toward more inclusive, effective, and culturally responsive disaster governance. Although focused on Australia, the challenges discussedsuch as land access limitations, uneven participation, and the recognition of diverse knowledge systemsare relevant to Indigenous communities across the Asia-Pacific and invite broader comparative reflection and policy learning.