National recognition of Aboriginal community-controlled councils a step closer

22 June 2021

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.

Djuwalpi Marika, the Deputy President of East Arnhem
Regional Council, hailed the unanimous support for the motion, saying it aligns
with and further strengthens 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 yesterday.

“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 is already working to promote improved coordination and
engagement with local government. It is a full member of the joint council on
Closing the Gap and an active participant in partnership working groups.

It also supports local government representatives engaged in
the co-design of the Indigenous Voice which is providing a way for Indigenous
Australians to give advice and have input on matters that are important to
improve their lives.

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.

ENDS