The rapid advancement of artificial intelligence (AI) and machine learning (ML) is reshaping industries, economies and societies. For Indigenous peoples, these technologies offer new opportunities alongside significant risks. This paper examines how AI and ML affect Indigenous participation in the digital economy, economic pathways, sovereignty, and the protection of Indigenous cultural and intellectual property (ICIP). It considers benefits including new forms of enterprise, language revitalisation, and data-informed decision-making in areas such as mining, resource management and cultural heritage protection. In the mining industry, where Bechtel operates globally, AI-enabled tools are increasingly influencing project delivery, operational efficiency and sustainability outcomes. Linking Indigenous considerations to this context is essential so innovation aligns with equity and cultural respect. At the same time, AI and ML can entrench harm through data sovereignty breaches, algorithmic bias, and misappropriation or commodification of traditional knowledge. Without robust governance and meaningful Indigenous involvement, these technologies may perpetuate historical inequities and undermine rights. Drawing on case studies from Australia and the Asia-Pacific, the paper analyses how Indigenous communities are engaging with AI and ML, the barriers they face, and emerging strategies to assert control over data, algorithms and knowledge systems. It emphasises culturally informed governance, ethical AI design and Indigenous-led participation in technology development. The analysis also considers international and emerging frameworks, including the United Nations Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples, relevant WIPO instruments on intellectual property, genetic resources and associated traditional knowledge, and digital rights approaches. The paper argues that responsible application of AI and ML grounded in Indigenous values and rights is essential to achieve equitable, sustainable and culturally respectful outcomes in the digital age.