The Nyinkka Nyunyu Art and Culture Centre will reopen on 28 April 2026, marking an important milestone for the Warumungu people and the Barkly region.
The Northern Territory Government has invested $10 million to deliver a modern, culturally respectful and fit-for-purpose facility in Tennant Creek
The upgraded centre supports local artists, strengthens cultural tourism and contributes to jobs, visitation and economic activity in Tennant Creek and the broader Barkly region.
The Nyinkka Nyunyu Art and Culture Centre will soon welcome residents, visitors and art and culture enthusiasts back through its doors, reconnecting the community with a place of deep cultural significance on Warumungu Country.
In the CLP Finocchiaro Government's year of growth, certainty and security, the reopening of Nyinkka Nyunyu reinforces our commitment to backing Aboriginal culture, supporting local jobs and strengthening the Barkly's economic future.
Minister for the Arts Jinson Charls said the investment ensures Nyinkka Nyunyu remains a place where Warumungu culture is protected, celebrated and shared on Country.
"This centre plays a vital role in supporting local artists, attracting visitors to Tennant Creek and strengthening the Barkly economy," Mr Charls said.
"The reopening follows careful preparation by Julalikari Council Aboriginal Corporation to ensure the centre operates with long-term sustainability and strong cultural integrity."
Established in 2003 by the Warumungu community, Nyinkka Nyunyu is located on the sacred site of the Nyinkka (spiky-tailed goanna) and is an Aboriginal-owned and governed cultural centre of deep significance.
Minister for Aboriginal Affairs and Member for Barkly, Steve Edgington, said the upgrade and re-opening was not only important for local jobs and rebuilding the regional economy, but also restoring the unique Territory lifestyle showcasing Aboriginal culture for locals and visitors to the region.
"I am committed to making the Barkly the best place in the Territory to live, work, visit, and invest in and the upgrade and re-opening of Nyinkka Nyunyu is an example of the CLP delivering for the regions.
"We delivered this project that Labor failed to do after promising it in 2016," Mr Edgington said
Construction of the $10 million upgrade was completed in 2025, with the facility handed back to Julalikari Council Aboriginal Corporation as asset owner and operator.
Over the past six months, Julalikari Council Aboriginal Corporation has undertaken strategic planning, recruitment and operational planning to ensure the centre reopens sustainably and in line with community expectations.
Chairperson of Julalikari Council Aboriginal Corporation, Richard James, said Nyinkka Nyunyu is an integral part of the community and the reopening is a proud moment.
"We want to thank all the people involved in the project - especially the Nyinkka Nyunyu Steering Committee and both the current and previous Julalikari Board of Directors - for their dedication to working with the Northern Territory Government on bringing it to completion.
"The upgraded centre provides opportunities for our artists, our young people and our families to celebrate Warumungu culture, share stories and grow the local arts sector for generations to come."
The upgrade has delivered modern exhibition spaces, immersive cultural experiences and improved facilities to support artists, cultural leaders and visitors.
It includes immersive exhibition spaces, improved gallery and retail areas, upgraded landscaping and performance spaces, and enhanced accessibility and safety features.
Nyinkka Nyunyu Art and Culture Centre will operate from 9am-2pm, Tuesday to Saturday, from 28 April 2026.
