Lorrae McArthur

Dr. Lorrae McArthur is a Research Fellow at The Australian National University's First Nations Portfolio (FNP) and a member of the ANU Zero-Carbon Energy for the Asia-Pacific (ZCEAP) Grand Challenge. She specializes in advancing First Nations engagement in renewable energy transitions and land/water rights. With over 20 years of experience, her work bridges Indigenous knowledge systems with contemporary policy frameworks.

Education:

• Bachelor of Animal Sciences, Monash University (1995–2000)
• PhD in Vertebrate Eco-physiology (focused on Australian tropical frogs), Charles Darwin University (2001–2006)
• MA in Development Studies (Beyond Colonialism: Torres Straits), University of Auckland (2017–2018)

Research Interests: Lorrae focuses on First Nations' rights to land and water, renewable energy project engagement, and culturally informed climate solutions. She co-leads the ICEDS Indigenous Peoples, Cultures and Knowledges research cluster, emphasizing transdisciplinary approaches to environmental governance.

Key Projects:

• Yamatji South Clean Energy Scoping Project (2024–2025): Explores culturally aligned clean energy pathways while preserving cultural values.
• ANU-ZCEAP initiatives: Supports Indigenous communities in Asia-Pacific's energy transition through policy advocacy and capacity-building.

Affiliations:

• Member, AIATSIS Native Title Research Advisory Committee
• Former roles at Northern Land Council and NAILSMA focusing on Indigenous land/sea management