Ocean Guardianship

We partner with Ocean-dependent and Indigenous communities to uphold and amplify their existing strengths, legal traditions and stewardship practices. Through collaborative, values-based legal support, the Department advances community-led approaches to Ocean governance rooted in justice and long-term responsibility while working to ensure that access to legal tools is not limited by cost or institutional barriers.

Ocean Guardianship refers to a relationship-based approach to protecting and sustaining the Ocean, grounded in respect, and interdependence between people and marine ecosystems. It represents more than environmental stewardship; it is a spiritual, cultural and legal paradigm that recognises the Ocean as a living relative, not merely a resource or economic commodity.

We accompany and support frontline Ocean stewards by mobilising legal expertise through pro bono, philanthropic and partnership-based models to safeguard marine ecosystems, advance Ocean equity and reimagine Ocean governance in ways that honour customary authority and intergenerational stewardship.

Partner and philanthropic support enables us to provide sustained, community-led legal assistance that strengthens Ocean governance and long-term stewardship.

Co-develop research and policy analysis grounded in local and Indigenous knowledge that informs law, policy and practice

Build community capacity for legal advocacy and rights-based approaches where access to legal support is limited

Co-create legal tools and governance frameworks that support stewardship and justice and can be used and adapted by communities

Strengthen legal and policy pathways for community-led Ocean governance that protect ecosystems while supporting long-term wellbeing.