Me-Mel is one of the 8 islands in Sydney Harbour. It has a special meaning for many Aboriginal people. It also has a rich history and natural beauty.
Situated in the centre of Sydney Harbour, Me-Mel was originally the cultural lands of surrounding Aboriginal communities. Early colonial writings record that the father of Woollawarre Bennelong was one of its traditional owners.
Experience
Experience Me-Mel through this visual tour including a 360-view of the island, drone footage and a walk around parts of the island.
Our commitment
In July 2023, the NSW Government celebrated NAIDOC Week by announcing our continued commitment to transfer Me-Mel to Aboriginal ownership, governance and management. This is a historic step towards recognition, reconciliation, self-determination and heritage protection.
We signed a memorandum of understanding with the Me-Mel Transfer Committee which agrees roles, responsibilities and guidelines for making recommendations to support this ambitious project. The committee has Aboriginal representatives and government support from the Cabinet Office, Aboriginal Affairs NSW, and NSW National Parks and Wildlife Service. The committee will guide the journey to realise the long-term benefits and possibilities of the transfer.
Me-Mel has great tourism potential and is expected to provide significant opportunities for self-determination, economic development, employment, and training for Aboriginal people. We also want to improve public access to the island, which is currently limited, and protect its cultural, environmental, colonial and maritime heritage. This is a unique opportunity for all stakeholders.
Hear from the Premier’s Department, National Parks and Wildlife Service and Aboriginal Affairs NSW government representatives on the Me-Mel Transfer Committee about the NSW Government’s commitment to this unique project.
The future of Me-Mel
Me-Mel has a new future emerging – one where it will be owned, governed and managed by Aboriginal people. This project will strengthen cultural, spiritual and community ties, acknowledge the past, and pave the way for a shared future.
At the same time, the NSW Government is committed to improving public access to the island, which is currently limited. They will also safeguard the island's cultural, environmental, colonial, and maritime heritage. The island will become a place for everyone to enjoy and gain a deeper understanding of our shared history.
Projects like this are ambitious and not always straightforward. We're carving out new paths, and there will be successes, challenges, and occasional disagreements along the way.
However, one thing remains unchanged. The NSW Government and Aboriginal communities are dedicated to realising the benefits of the transfer and empowering Aboriginal people to look after the island in the future.
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If you would like to receive updates on or be part of the engagement for this project, please complete the form.
You can read our latest updates to the community below:
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