This paper argues that the capacity of indigenous groups to engage effectively in environmental planning activities, at different levels, is crucial to securing land justice and community security. This argument is made against the backdrop of tensions between indigenous peoples residing in post-settler societies and nation states such as Australia, Canada, and New Zealand over questions of resource sovereignty. The paper argues that effective planning is central to (i) successful acquisition of lands through legal land claim processes, (ii) protecting indigenous interests by engaging the planning activities of the state, and (iii) realization of community goals by establishment of effective community-based planning processes.