The Northern Territory Government has formalised an agreement with the region’s Anindilyakwa people to establish a brand new local government body.
Chief Minister, Natasha Fyles yesterday signed the agreement which will see the new local government body – Groote Archipelago Regional Council – established in the Territory.
“Listening to local voices and prioritising local decision-making is a cornerstone of strong, sustainable communities here in the Territory,” the Chief Minister said in a statement.
“The Groote Archipelago Regional Council will ensure decisions are made by community, for community – on matters including health care, housing, education and economic development.
“My thanks to Anindilyakwa Land Council’s Mr Tony Wurramarrba AO, the ALC Board, and Anindilyakwa communities for their leadership,” she said.
The Groote Archipelago, the Anindilyakwa people’s home, is situated in the Gulf of Carpentaria.
The Traditional Owners of the Groote Archipelago are referred to by their language name, Anindilyakwa. The Indigenous people of this archipelago are made up of 14 clans.
There are seven indigenous communities in the Groote Archipelago. The largest communities are Angurugu and Umbakumba located on Groote Eylandt, and Milyakburra located on Bickerton Island. In addition, there are also four satellite communities – Mile, Malkala, Little Paradise, and Bartalumba Bay.
