MEDIA RELEASE - East Arnhem and West Arnhem Councils unite to strengthen regional collaboration and advocacy

Thursday, 29 June 2023

MEDIA RELEASE 

East Arnhem Regional Council and West Arnhem Regional Council unite to strengthen collaboration and advocate for Local & Regional Development, and confirm their shared commitment to the Indigenous Voice and supporting the Yes Campaign and the strength of Aboriginal Community Controlled Councils.

The East Arnhem Regional Council President Lapulung Dhamarrandji and West Arnhem Regional Council Mayor Matthew Ryan convened yesterday, supported by the Councillors of the respective regions, to foster a spirit of cooperation, share experiences, and explore opportunities for mutual growth. Elected members from both councils engaged in productive discussions, focusing on areas of commonality, shared challenges, and joint advocacy positions.

One of the key highlights of the meeting was the emphasis placed on the councils' commitment to the shared benefit of their respective residents. Recognising the value in collaborating on key issues; services and infrastructure. Both Councils acknowledged the importance of leveraging their combined strengths to address challenges effectively, and promote positive change across their respective regions.

During the discussions, the Councils recognised the significant connections between them, not only through cultural song lines, but also shared history and challenges. By acknowledging and understanding these commonalities, the councils aim to deepen their collaboration and build stronger partnerships for the benefit of all residents.

In addition to the topics discussed, the East Arnhem Regional Council and West Arnhem Regional Council have jointly affirmed their support for the "Yes" campaign on the Indigenous Voice to Parliament. Recognising the importance of ensuring meaningful representation and participation of all Indigenous peoples in the decision-making processes that affect their communities. Both councils stand united in advocating for the establishment of an Indigenous Voice to Parliament and pivotal role that Council has in supporting and promoting the campaign. They believe that such a voice will contribute to a more inclusive, equitable, and respectful Australia, where the diverse perspectives and aspirations of Indigenous Australians are heard and valued.

By actively endorsing the "Yes" campaign, the councils aim to amplify the voices of their Indigenous constituents and work towards a stronger, more inclusive future for all residents of the region.

Youth justice needs were at the forefront of the deliberations, with both councils acknowledging the deficit in funding for youth programming throughout the regions and the need for rehabilitating young offenders on country.

Recognising the urgent need to address this issue, the elected members committed to advocating for increased investment and resources to support comprehensive youth services that empower and nurture the region's young individuals.

Another pressing concern discussed was the ongoing challenges stemming from failed telecommunications infrastructure in our regions. Both councils highlighted the detrimental impact of inadequate connectivity on residents' ability to access essential services and opportunities.

In this regard, the councils expressed the urgent need for significant investment to bridge the digital divide and ensure equal access to telecommunications services, bringing our regions on par with other parts of Australia.

The cost of living crisis in our regions was also a topic of considerable discussion. Recognising the financial pressures faced by residents, the councils pledged to advocate on strategies to alleviate this burden and seek potential solutions to make living more affordable for everyone in the communities they represent, including, extensive transport costs faced by residents and frequency of social services payments for disadvantaged regions.

As part of the visit, the Elected Members were given a comprehensive tour, graciously hosted by the East Arnhem Regional Council President Lapulung Dhamarrandji and the Elected Members of the region. The tour showcased the services and infrastructure available to the communities, further highlighting the potential for collaboration and knowledge-sharing between the councils.

The joint gathering of East Arnhem Regional Council and West Arnhem Regional Council represents a significant milestone in fostering regional cooperation and collective action. Both Councils are committed to ongoing collaboration, leveraging their shared experiences, and advocating for positive change that will benefit all residents in their regions.

Today marks the start of new strengths and brighter regions through shared commitment of the Aboriginal Community Controlled Councils – East Arnhem Regional Council & West Arnhem Regional Council.

Notable quotes:

President Lapulung Dhamarrandji – “We have a shared value and shared struggle, this is not about black and white; it is time to step from the dark as the original people of this land, Yolngu ga Balanda walking together – we need to talk to government from our heart for a sense of freedom to sustain our future”.

Mayor Matthew Ryan – “At the end of the day, it’s about us, it is about us uniting as one people east and west, by working together as a collective we are stronger together to achieve everyday struggle on aboriginal affairs.”

ENDS