I saw ‘FPIC’ on the website. What does that mean?
Quote from Community Member on 9 December 2025, 3:36 pmDisclaimer: This post is a demonstration of our ‘Collaborative Conversations’ Forum. The information provided is based on examples of conversations our experts have had.
I noticed the term ‘FPIC’ on the project website. Can someone explain what that means in plain English?
Disclaimer: This post is a demonstration of our ‘Collaborative Conversations’ Forum. The information provided is based on examples of conversations our experts have had.
I noticed the term ‘FPIC’ on the project website. Can someone explain what that means in plain English?
Quote from Expert on 9 December 2025, 3:37 pmAbsolutely. FPIC stands for Free, Prior and Informed Consent. It’s an international human rights principle that ensures First Nations peoples have the right to give or withhold consent to a project that affects their land, culture, or way of life.
Broken down:
- Free: No coercion, intimidation, or manipulation
- Prior: Consent is sought before any activity starts
- Informed: Communities must be given all relevant information in a timely, accessible way
- Consent: It’s not just about being heard—it’s about being able to say yes or no
It’s especially relevant in projects near or on Native Title land. While Australia doesn’t have national legislation enshrining FPIC, it is embedded in the Native Title Act, and increasingly used in best practice frameworks.
Would you like a resource that explains how FPIC applies in Australia?
Absolutely. FPIC stands for Free, Prior and Informed Consent. It’s an international human rights principle that ensures First Nations peoples have the right to give or withhold consent to a project that affects their land, culture, or way of life.
Broken down:
- Free: No coercion, intimidation, or manipulation
- Prior: Consent is sought before any activity starts
- Informed: Communities must be given all relevant information in a timely, accessible way
- Consent: It’s not just about being heard—it’s about being able to say yes or no
It’s especially relevant in projects near or on Native Title land. While Australia doesn’t have national legislation enshrining FPIC, it is embedded in the Native Title Act, and increasingly used in best practice frameworks.
Would you like a resource that explains how FPIC applies in Australia?
Quote from Community Member on 9 December 2025, 3:37 pmYes please. This seems important but no one explained it like that at the meeting.
Yes please. This seems important but no one explained it like that at the meeting.
Quote from Expert on 9 December 2025, 3:38 pmHere’s a great primer from the Food and Agriculture Organisation:
FPIC Manual for Practitioners (FAO)
Here’s a great primer from the Food and Agriculture Organisation:
FPIC Manual for Practitioners (FAO)