Northern Land Council

The NLC extends its congratulations to the Country Liberal Party on forming government, and looks forward to a meeting with the Chief Minister-elect to discuss shared priorities.

"We are hopeful that the new Chief Minister's vision to address crime, reinvigorate the economy, and restore lifestyles will include meaningful engagement with Aboriginal people, ensuring that our vital voices are heard and respected in the decision-making processes," said Chair Matthew Ryan.

READ MORE:
https://www.nlc.org.au/the-nlc-congratulates-clp-on-election-victory

Today marks the anniversary of the Wave Hill Walk-Off, a pivotal moment in the struggle for Aboriginal rights.

In 1966, Vincent Lingiari and the Gurindji people took a courageous stand, walking off Wave Hill Station to demand better wages and land rights.

Their bravery sparked a movement that changed the course of history, leading to the recognition of Indigenous land rights in Australia. Today, we honour their legacy and continue to stand for justice and equality.

The NLC rejects allegations that it has inappropriately used resources to interfere in the Northern Territory Election.

The NLC is not beholden to any political party. Since it was established in 1974, the Council has worked closely with successive Liberal and Labor governments for the betterment of its constituents across the Top End.

READ MORE: https://www.nlc.org.au/the-nlc-remains-fiercely-politically-independent

Photo: NLC Full Council Meeting July, 2024, Gulkula.

The NLC has taken a decisive step in the battle for Aboriginal water rights by establishing a new Water Committee, amid growing concerns over government transparency and water management in the NT.

Water is sacred and vital for the Aboriginal communities across the NLC's seven regions. The NLC is committed to securing water rights that protect not only the lives and culture of current generations but also ensure environmental preservation and sustainable economic development for future generations...

READ MORE: https://www.nlc.org.au/nlcs-new-water-committee-calls-for-investigation-into-nt-water-mismanagement

ABC News: 'Powerful Aboriginal land council criticises body.

According to the Northern Land Council (NLC), which helps Aboriginal Territorians acquire and manage their traditional lands, the NT Land Corporation "was set up to help defeat Aboriginal land claims".

"This is an established fact, as evidenced in legislative debates and the government statements from the time," an NLC spokesperson said.'

What we know about the NT Land Corporation, a little-known body with big influence Monday’s Four Corners program shone a spotlight on a little-known quasi-government body called the NT Land Corporation. Where did it come from? What power does it have? And what scrutiny is there?

Are you ready to make a difference through a community-driven approach? We have a great opportunity for you to contribute to meaningful and sustainable development projects within our Community Planning and Development (CP&D) team.

Find out more here: https://jobs.nlc.org.au/job-details/query/community-planning-andamp-development-project-officer/in/australia/9364112/

NLC Water Committee member Cecilia Lake talks to ABC's Four Corners' 'The great Australian water grab'.

The program, being broadcast tonight, exposes a system driven by conflicts of interest that threatens to destroy some of the NT's most famous tourism destinations.

Read more: https://www.abc.net.au/news/2024-08-19/northern-territory-water-cotton-mataranka-springs-four-corners/104187666

Apply for the NLC Tertiary Cadetship Program, which provides financial assistance to Aboriginal students, from the NLC Region who are undertaking tertiary studies. The funds will enable students to focus on their studies and can also be used to pay for expenses relating to their studies.

Funding of up to $25 000 to be paid to the Student in instalments as agreed between the parties per year of study.

Northern Land Council Tertiary Cadetship: https://jobs.nlc.org.au/job-details/query/northern-land-council-tertiary-cadetship/in/australia/9360943/

The NLC celebrates the commitment by NT Labor to fund Indigenous Ranger programs in the Territory!

“It’s great Labor has committed to ongoing funding to support these programs operating in remote areas. The rangers are ensuring healthy land and seas for the benefit of all Australians. Let’s see the same good news from CLP, and also the investment in rangers grow,” said NLC Chair Matthew Ryan.

“My role is to take care of my Country. I'm really proud of my ranger job. I understand the law, the culture, and the sacred site area," added Senior Ranger (Numburindi – South-East Arnhem Land) Clive Nunggarrgalu. “NT government ranger grants are an important for us as we need new equipment, new vehicles and upgrades to our ranger base to keep doing our important work.”

READ MORE: https://www.nlc.org.au/labor-commits-to-continue-funding-ranger-programs-focus-turns-to-clp-to-clearly-state-support

Are you passionate about making a positive impact and do you, thrive working in a collaborative cross-cultural work environment? then we want to hear from you...

We are looking for two dedicated, passionate individuals to join our team based in Nhulunbuy.

Logistics & Customer Service Officer: https://jobs.nlc.org.au/job-details/query/logistics-andamp-customer-service-officer/in/australia/9343703/

Administration Assistant: https://jobs.nlc.org.au/job-details/query/administration-assistant/in/australia/9346922/

The NLC applauds Labor's commitment to form a dedicated, independent housing department, if its government is re-elected.

“The NLC welcomes this announcement by the current Chief Minister. We would be happy to see this new department remove confusion and barriers for Aboriginal people across the Top End, as well as allow the NT government to be better guided by the Joint Steering Committee. Now we want to hear the same from CLP,” said NLC Chair Matthew Ryan.

Read more:
https://www.nlc.org.au/nlc-supports-creation-of-new-department-territory-homes

Photo: Housing under construction in Maningrida, August 2024.

“In her farewell, Minister Linda Burney spoke about witnessing a younger generation of Aboriginal people who are now ready to take their places in the world. The hard work she has put in has inspired those young people, as it has our Council. We are grateful for all that she has achieved," said NLC Chair Matthew Ryan.

"The NLC is very proud to now welcome that local one! Senator Malarndirri McCarthy - Northern Territory, as the new Minister for Indigenous Australians," he added. "Her experience and deep connection to our communities will bring valuable knowledge and strong advocacy to Canberra.

READ MORE: https://www.nlc.org.au/the-nlc-celebrates-burney-s-legacy-embraces-mccarthy-s-leadership

The NLC extends its gratitude to Linda Burney for her dedicated service as Minister for Indigenous Australians.

Throughout her tenure as Minister, Ms Burney has been a steadfast advocate for the rights and well-being of Aboriginal communities. Her tireless efforts have brought about significant advancements in policy and on-the-ground support for our people.

Ms Burney’s commitment to justice, equality, and the preservation of our cultural values has been inspiring. Her leadership has made a lasting impact, and we are profoundly thankful for her unwavering dedication and support, particularly through the Voice Referendum.

We thank her for her time, passion, and unwavering commitment and wish her all the best as she steps down from her ministerial role.

Albanese to reshuffle ministry as Linda Burney and Brendan O’Connor announce retirement ‘I am proud to call them my friends,’ says prime minister, who will unveil new cabinet on Sunday

The NLC extends its condolences to the family of Mr. Chulung, a true champion of Aboriginal rights and a foundational pillar of the Kimberley Land Council.

Known as Wangaloo - "Brave One" - Mr. Chulung was a founding member and inaugural Chairman of the KLC. His pioneering efforts and also his tenure with the Aboriginal Legal Service are a testament to his lifelong commitment to justice and equity for Aboriginal people.

His legacy, marked by courage and vision, continues to inspire us.

In honour of Mr. Chulung, and with permission from his family, the KLC has shared the images in the story below from its archives.

Founding member and inaugural chairman of the Kimberley Land Council, Mr Chulung, passes away The Kimberley Land Council has acknowledged the sad passing of founding member and inaugural Chairman Mr Chulung, and extended their sincere condolences to his family.Known as Wangaloo - 'Brave One' -...

What a week, and what a morning! Larrakia Nation put on a deadly celebration in Darwin for NAIDOC today. NLC staff were proud to follow Larrakia Elders on a march through the city, chanting “Keep the fire burning! Blak, loud and proud.”

Back at Chan Laws, Mr James Parfitt gave a moving Welcome to County. We cooked up a big BBQ and got to yarn with Countrymen and women, as well as visitors. Performances from the Larrakia and also the Torres Strait Islander dancers, plus sets from Coloured Stone, were highlights.

It is with great sadness that the NLC mourns the passing of Mr. T Wurramarrba AO, former Chairman of the Anindilyakwa Land Council.

On behalf of the NLC's past and present members and staff, we extend our deepest condolences to Mr. Wurramarrba’s family, the Anindilyakwa people, and the entire community.

"Mr. Wurramarrba's commitment to his people and all his hard work for their rights and future is an example for us all. His leadership and vision will be missed greatly," said NLC Chair Matthew Ryan. "Through his dedication and many hard-fought wins, the late Chairman has left a legacy that will continue to inspire and guide us all."

Read the full statement via the link below.

The NLC mourns the passing of Mr. T Wurramarrba AO It is with great sadness that the Northern Land Council (NLC) acknowledges the passing of Mr. T Wurramarrba AO, former Chairman of the Anindilyakwa Land Council (ALC).

Some highlights from the iconic Barunga Festival 2024.

This year’s event paid a special tribute to our late Chair Dr Bush-Blanasi who was such a major part of the event’s success over the years. “This Country, Our Country, went quiet the day he left so today onward we remember and honour his life work and his impact on our lives,’’ shared his granddaughter Tedisha Bush in her heartfelt speech.

Amid the wonderful art, culture, dance and music on offer at Barunga Festival, there were many familiar Council members, staff and friendly faces to be seen.

It was great to receive lots of interest in the NLC, the Learning on Country Program, Community Projects & Development work, land rights matters, and permits for accessing Aboriginal Land and Sea Country.

We can’t wait for next year!

Today we joined the other Land Councils in signing the largest-ever remote housing investment in the Northern Territory at Milikapiti on the Tiwi Islands.

This groundbreaking $4 billion, 10-year commitment is set to enhance housing quality and cut overcrowding in remote communities, town camps, and community living areas. This effort aligns with the four priority reforms of the National Agreement on Closing the Gap.

What a monumental agreement! We’re looking forward to supporting all partners to create culturally appropriate homes that are resilient to climate change.

Earlier this month Traditional Owners, families and their friends joined together with the NLC, NT Parks and guests in celebrating the 50th Anniversary of the Cobourg Peninsula Wetlands being designated under the Convention on Wetlands of International Importance (known as the Ramsar Convention).

The Cobourg Peninsula Wetlands, within the jointly-managed Garig Gunak Barlu National Park, were the first place in the entire world to be recognised under this international treaty in 1974.

Traditional Owner John Williams welcomed everyone to Madjunbalmi Country, before a Bunguul followed by speeches.

Agalda, Madjunbalmi, Muran, Ngaynjaharr clan members commemorated this special milestone together.

It was an unforgettable camp and especially great to see so many young ones out enjoying their Country.

Commitments by Territory Labor and the CLP to phase out commercial gillnet fishing present a renewed opportunity.

Government must strengthen engagement with Traditional Owners and industry stakeholders to chart the way for a thriving fisheries future.

Read more:
https://www.nlc.org.au/the-future-of-the-nt-fishing-industry-is-in-partnership-with-traditional-owners

"Our waters are sacred, our Songlines follow the water, they are crucial to our people’s way of life," said NLC Chair Matthew Ryan. "This Plan jeopardises our Country and the future generations who will care for it."

Roper River Traditional Owners urge NT government to rewrite Draft Mataranka Water Allocation Plan The Northern Land Council has thrown its support behind calls from the Traditional Owners of the Roper River catchment for the Northern Territory government to rewrite the 'appalling' Draft Mataranka ...

The NLC backs Traditional Owners of the Roper River catchment calling for a Northern Territory Government rewrite of the appalling Draft Mataranka Water Allocation Plan.

Draft Mataranka Water Allocation Plan – a failure on all fronts The Northern Land Council backs Traditional Owners of the Roper River catchment calling for a Northern Territory Government rewrite of the appalling Draft Mataranka Water Allocation Plan.

Can't wait to see this new documentary from Country Needs People, featuring South East Arnhem Land Indigenous Protected Area.

Check out the trailer via the link below.

Keeping Country Strong (Official Trailer) Across vast tracts of Indigenous Protected Areas, Indigenous Rangers are fighting the world’s biggest environmental challenges.A new documentary by Country N...

The NLC denounces Federal Environment Minister’s decision to not protect Binybara (Lee Point), and supports Larrakia Traditional Owners’ call for an independent inquiry into unlawful land clearing.

Read more via the link:

The NLC back Larrakia on independent inquiry into Binybara (Lee Point) Explore the Northern Land Council (NLC) website for Indigenous land rights, culture, and community support in Darwin, Northern Territory. Learn more today

Are you driven by a passion for cultural research and eager to make a meaningful impact in the Northern Territory?

The Northern Land Council (NLC) is seeking a dedicated and enthusiastic Research Assistant to join our Anthropology team.

Find out more here: https://jobs.nlc.org.au/job-details/query/research-assistant/in/australia/9304029/

Are you looking for an opportunity to join a dynamic team as an Executive Assistant, where you can support the team and make a meaningful impact to our workforce?

If so, we have an exciting new opportunity for you within our Anthropology team...

Apply here: https://jobs.nlc.org.au/job-details/query/executive-assistant-anthropology/in/australia/9303853/

This week is National Reconciliation Week.

The 2024 theme: Now More Than Ever, is a reminder to all of us that no matter what, the fight for justice and the rights of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people will —and must —continue.

Explainer: The history of Indigenous reconciliation As Australia celebrates National Reconciliation Week, NITV's Ryan Liddle explains the key moments in history that have moved the country towards reconciliation with First Nations communities.