ISWAG Guide to Kimberley Saltwater Science
The Kimberley Saltwater Research Guide sets out how researchers and Traditional Owners work together on sea country science projects in the Kimberley. It is a best-practice process for two-way collaborative research, developed and endorsed by ISWAG member groups.
This guide explains the process for doing saltwater research in the Kimberley in a way that is respectful, collaborative, and right for Country.
It builds on earlier collaborative science protocols developed through the Kimberley Indigenous Saltwater Science Project (KISSP), a research project that ran from 2014 to 2018. While KISSP has concluded, ISWAG continues as a standalone entity, carrying the principles and relationships built during that time into a new generation of sea country science
When should I use this Guide?
This Guide applies if your project:
- is in the Kimberley region
- includes research, fieldwork, desktop work, management or monitoring*
- is in saltwater (marine) or coastal areas, and
- you want to collaborate with Traditional Owners and/or Indigenous Rangers
It does not apply to purely land-based research, projects outside the Kimberley, or commercial, filming or photography proposals.
* Where the term research is used in this context, we are referring to a range of desktop or field-based activities that include monitoring and management activities. Many may benefit from a regional approach, such as weed and pest control programs, or research and management that is focused on migratory species.
ISWAG Application and Assessment Process
The diagram below represents an ideal process. However, there may be different entry pathways. Researchers with strong relationships might fully co-design a project, then apply. Others might use the application form to submit an initial idea, then work on co-designing the project together. Make this clear in your application.
Project is Co-designed
Application Form
PBC Assessment
Approved
More info needed
Not approved
Project revised together
Research Agreement
Project Starts
The 8-Stage Research Cycle
Stage 1 – Prepare
Do your background research before reaching out
Before you contact any Traditional Owner group, take the time to understand the region, the people, and their priorities. Read this guide in full. Find out whose Country you plan to work on – it may be more than one group. Look up their Healthy Country Plans and find the right contact people. Talk to other researchers with experience working collaboratively with Traditional Owners in the Kimberley.
Stage 2 – Co-design and Apply
Develop the project together and submit your application
Once a group agrees to work with you, co-design the project together. Use plain English in all your communications. Complete and submit the Kimberley Saltwater Research Application Form. Allow at least three months – many groups will need longer. Be prepared for the proposal to go back and forth.
Stage 3 – Assessment and Consultation
Your application is reviewed by the PBC and Traditional Owners
Your application goes to the relevant Prescribed Body Corporate (PBC). They will consult with Traditional Owners and assess your proposal. They may request more information or ask for changes. If approved, move to Stage 4. If not, ask for feedback and look for ways to better align with local priorities.
Stage 4 – Research Agreement
Formalise the partnership in writing
A Research Agreement is required before your project can begin – not just recommended. It is a legally binding document covering data ownership, benefit-sharing, IP, co-authorship and the project plan. Always ask the PBC for their own research agreement template first.
Stage 5 – Fieldwork and Data Analysis
Working on Country together
Confirm your schedule several months in advance. Always follow cultural protocols. Most Ranger groups are dry – leave alcohol at home. Involve Rangers and Elders in all fieldwork and data analysis. Share preliminary results as soon as possible after each field trip.
Stage 6 – Report Back, Interpret and Apply
Share and use the results together
Before publishing anything, return results to the community first. Use simple language and visuals. Hold workshops with Rangers, Elders and young people. Let Traditional Owners interpret results in their own terms. Apply findings to sea country management.
Stage 7 – Publish and Present
Share findings the right way
All publications must be approved by Traditional Owners before you submit or present them. Invite Rangers and Traditional Owners as co-authors and co-presenters. Protect any confidential cultural information. Allow four to eight weeks for review.
Stage 8 – Review and Next Steps
Reflect, maintain relationships and build future collaborations
Stay connected after fieldwork ends. Facilitate a formal review with all partners. Share publications back to the community. Help connect communities with government agencies on relevant policy. A successful project leads to the next one.
