The Finocchiaro CLP Government is continuing to deliver on its commitment to empower bush communities in the Territory.
Minister for Housing, Local Government and Community Development Steve Edgington met five of the seven newly elected councillors of Groote Archipelago Regional Council before today's first council meeting.
"This is a proud and exciting time and a significant moment in the history of the Groote Archipelago Region as we witness the official formation of the new Groote Archipelago Regional Council," said Mr Edgington.
"We have a great mix of experience and youth, women and men, from across the archipelago. Some bring years of experience as councillors and local authority members, even a former CEO, while others are stepping into leadership roles for the first time."
Mr Edgington said the new three ward council - West, Central and East - showed real action in creating certainty in our Territory bush communities by offering fairer and more localised representation to residents.
"We promised to foster self-determination and strengthen service delivery through important reform in the Groote Archipelago Region, and we achieved this by working with locals to provide a council structure that reflected what the community wanted," he said.
"I know that restoring control of communities to Aboriginal people is fundamental to rebuilding our economy and restoring our unique Territory lifestyle, creating real opportunities for locals to have a more active role in community development and decision-making processes.
"Our government promised 2025 would be a year of action, certainty and security for Territorians."
Mr Edgington praised the councillors' commitment to their communities, saying their induction week had already demonstrated a strong sense of purpose and unity.
"Councillors heard from various organisations, including the Local Government Association of the Northern Territory and the Independent Commissioner Against Corruption about how to stay on track and lead with integrity," said Mr Edgington.
"They were all there because they want to make their communities better, create local jobs, improve services, engage young people, stay connected to culture, and promote community wellbeing.
"Now, as a council, the councillors can turn those ambitions into real outcomes."
Mr Edgington acknowledged the work of the Anindilyakwa Land Council, particularly the former Chair and Deputy Chair, for their significant contributions to progressing local decision-making.
"With both Groote and Anindilyakwa councils now settled, these organisations are well positioned to collaborate on projects that support community wellbeing and economic growth," he said.
Mr Edgington said the CLP Government was committed to continuing engagement and consultation with community members and wider stakeholders in regional and remote areas across the Territory.
