Shaping the Future of Indigenous Data Sovereignty
As we build on the foundations of Indigenous data sovereignty (IDS), we envision a future where our communities actively determine how our data is governed and applied across industries, ensuring the preservation of our histories, cultures and knowledge. Yet, in many ways, we are only just beginning this journey.
Implementing IDS is not about reaching a fixed destination—it is an evolving process, shaped by the very technologies it seeks to hold accountable. It is up to us, as individuals and as a collective, to deepen our understanding of Indigenous data and the holistic approach it requires.
This forward momentum echoes the 2025 NAIDOC Week theme: The Next Generation: Strength, Vision & Legacy. At a time when Australia’s reconciliation journey feels uncertain, this theme is a powerful reminder that our future is shaped by the strength of our young leaders, the vision of our communities and the enduring legacy of our ancestors.
Oral history has been at the heart of Indigenous cultures since time immemorial—and always will be. Today, we harness digital technology to safeguard these stories, ensuring the wisdom of our Elders lives on for future generations. Now, more than ever, it is essential that our communities recognise the value of this data, educate our young people and empower them as the next generation of tech warriors—throwing the spears of our knowledge into the future.
IDS is Evolving
What began as a vital call for control and respect over our data has grown into a powerful movement, one that is actively challenging deep-rooted power structures in the data space. Take the Global Indigenous Data Alliance (GIDA), for example – an association of Indigenous researchers, data practitioners and activists advocating for IDS within their nations and on the global stage. These efforts are breaking barriers, ensuring that Indigenous communities have a say in how their data is collected, shared and used.
Achieving an equitable and transparent future for Indigenous data requires ongoing commitment, collaboration and a firm stand for sovereignty. At Winyama, we’ve always believed in and utilised the transformative power of Indigenous data sovereignty – across mapping, land management, knowledge transfer and more. It’s not just about protecting data, it’s about ensuring it continues to guide our communities and respect our way of doing things.
Emerging Challenges: Technology Moves Fast—So Must Our Responsibility
As we look ahead, we find ourselves at the intersection of innovation and responsibility. Artificial Intelligence (AI) and big data are transforming industries, shaping everything from decision-making processes to digital storytelling. But for our communities, these advancements present both opportunity and risk. AI systems are only as good as the data they are built on, and when that data lacks Indigenous representation or context, the result can be misinterpretation or exclusion (see our blog on the role of AI in cultural sensitivity and content diversity).
In just 5 years, Australia’s digital technology sector has grown by 80 per cent, valuing A$167 billion and continuing to grow fast. With Australia aiming to be one of the leading countries in digital innovation, it is essential that we not only understand the impacts of this on our communities, but also take action.
This rapid transformation calls for the next frontier in the Indigenous Data Sovereignty movement: educating our young people about our right to right to self-determination over data, evolving best practice as guided by our Elders, and fostering partnerships built on mutual trust and respect for Indigenous culture.
Insights from the Center for Indian Country Development (CICD) Data Summit
At the past CICD Data Summit in December of 2024, leaders, experts and community representatives came together to discuss the future of Indigenous data sovereignty in the United States. While there are differences, the insights shared hold great value for communities on both sides of the ocean—as highlighted during our Indigenous Mapping Workshops.
Discussions at the summit focused on ethical data practice and policies, and the influence this has on economic prosperity of Indian Country—a similar discussion to those happening in Australia at this very moment.
The Summit made one thing clear: the challenge is not longer just awareness, but action.
“The Indigenous data sovereignty movement really is about this notion that there’s a role for everybody–for elders, for youth, for scholars. It’s not a competitive space. We need everybody there. It’s a synergistic space in which to be good relative.”
While recognition of IDS is growing, much like here in Australia, the real work lies in implementation. How do we embed IDS into policies, technologies and governance structures in ways that make a tangible impact?
The answer lies in advocacy, partnerships and community-driven solutions. Our Elders have dug the trenches, and it’s time for the next generation of tech warriors to take the shovel. Not just influencing policy but reshaping systems to put Indigenous governance at the core. It’s time for governments, industries and organisations to move beyond conversations and commit to real change, ensuring Indigenous communities have the authority, infrastructure and tools to define their own data future.
“As Native people, we look to the future and think seven generations ahead … What does that even look like? What will our children’s children be doing at that time? … I don’t know, but I do know that our people are still going to be here, and that the stories of our community are still going to need to be told. And telling those community stories requires data.”
Shaping the Future of IDS: Following the Footprints in the Sand
As the data landscape continues to evolve, Winyama stands at the forefront of the Indigenous data sovereignty movement—no just as advocates, but as active contributors. We engage with frameworks, methodologies and partnerships in the projects we collaborate on, ensuring that IDS is embedded in meaningful, real-world applications.
We recognise that IDS is not a one-size-fits-all approach. Each community has its own unique needs and priorities; from hosting and holding sensitive heritage information securely, creating cultural maps in collaboration with community, or the oral histories entrusted to our Elders that need to be preserved with care.
That’s why we focus on our vision: full and equal participation of Indigenous people in the digital economy.
To achieve this, we must empower Mob with the knowledge, digital skills and tools to care for Country and community. Our work ensures that data management is done the right way—with governance and culture at the heart of our methods.
We work alongside communities to put their needs at the forefront of the solution, ensuring that their knowledge remains protected, accessible and used in ways that align with their values and aspirations–this is data sovereignty in action.
With this year marking the 50th anniversary of NAIDOC, Winyama reflects on this powerful national celebration, a testament to the enduring strength of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples. As we honour this milestone, we also look to the future—considering the industry we know best and how we can shape it with courage and passion.
For us, this means weaving technology into our traditions and traditions into technology, ensuring that our communities reap the rewards of innovation. We acknowledge those whose footsteps we walk in, those who carry the torch on this journey with us, and we hope that includes you.
Taking Action: Join the Movement
The future of Indigenous data sovereignty holds responsibility, but is none the less bright in its opportunities.
Whether you’re part of a community, an organisation or an individual passionate about IDS, there are many ways to get involved in shaping the future of IDS.
For Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander corporations, managing data isn’t just about meeting legal requirements—it’s also about protecting culture. Under the CATSI Act 2006, Prescribed Bodies Corporate and other Indigenous organisations have responsibilities for record-keeping and reporting. But beyond compliance, there’s also a duty to safeguard Indigenous knowledge, stories, and intellectual property. By managing data well, you’re not just following the rules—you’re preserving cultural heritage and strengthening self-determination. With GIS platforms and spatial data protocols, you can protect place-based stories and cultural landscapes, ensuring they remain part of community identity for generations to come.
We know this can feel complex, especially when balancing legal obligations with cultural responsibility. It’s a big task, and it can seem overwhelming. But you don’t have to do it alone—we’re here to help, every step of the way.
As we reflect on the importance of collaboration and shared responsibility, particularly during NAIDOC and National Reconciliation Week, we encourage meaningful action toward a stronger Indigenous-led data future.
Explore Winyama’s previous Indigenous data sovereignty blogs to deepen your understanding of IDS and discover how you can be supported in your journey toward data sovereignty.
Indigenous Data Sovereignty Starts With a Deadly Data Strategy
Building Stronger Partnerships Through Indigenous Data Sovereignty
Our pathways are being imprinted, and we have the opportunity to guide our young people to a more inclusive digital future—so keep the yarn going. This year’s National IMW will feature expert-led sessions on Australian Indigenous data governance and sovereignty principles ideal for young Mob to attend.
Does your organisation want support? We can help your team work smarter with data, feel more confident in their decisions, and rely less on outside help.
Get in touch with our team or explore our Geospatial Capability Building Services.