Delegates to the 27th National General Assembly of Local Government have backed moves to give Indigenous Australians a greater say in how they address entrenched disadvantage in their local communities.
A motion put forward by East Arnhem Regional Council to support nationally consistent recognition of Aboriginal controlled councils was carried unanimously at yesterday’s session of the NGA.
Deputy President of East Arnhem Regional Council, Djuwalpi Marika hailed the unanimous support for the motion, saying it aligned with and further strengthened the recognition of Local Government in the Closing the Gap National Partnership Agreement.
“Council is the arm of the people of East Arnhem Land,” he said.
“We are working to bring empowerment to our Yolngu and Anindilyakwa Yolngu of East Arnhem Land, and look forward to working more with the two ‘Balanda’ western levels of government.”
The successful motion will now be considered by the ALGA Board for adoption as part of its national advocacy platform.
ALGA President, Linda Scott welcomed the overwhelming support for East Arnhem’s motion.
“Indigenous councils are invariably constrained in how they provide adequate services and infrastructure, as they do not have access to resources, including own-source rate revenue.
“Yesterday’s motion shows the strong commitment of local government to supporting the very real desire of Indigenous Councils to give their communities life outcomes that are equal to those enjoyed by all Australians,” Cr Scott said.
