The Territory Labor Government's groundbreaking remote housing program has reached a new milestone with the awarding of a $51.5 million contract to build 87 homes in Galiwin'ku.
Local Aboriginal Business Enterprise, Bukmak Constructions will carry out the works over five-years, providing apprenticeship and other training opportunities for residents of the remote island community.
The contract also includes extending dozens of existing homes under the innovative Room to Breathe program.
This is the largest single contract awarded to date under the Territory Labor Government's Remote Housing Investment Package which aims to alleviate overcrowding and improve living conditions; provide sustainable employment; enable economic development opportunities; and engage remote communities through Local Decision Making.
Bukmak Constructions, a wholly-owned subsidiary of Arnhem Land Progress Aboriginal Corporation (ALPA) plans to facilitate a community-based training program for local Yolngu workers, creating career pathways with the offer of apprenticeships and traineeships.
The five-year contract period will support a pipeline of works in the East Arnhem region, opening up opportunities for Territory trades and supply businesses as well as associated support industries such as mechanics and catering.
Bukmak plans to utilise services, materials and products from the region and is exploring the potential for a manufacturing and assembly business on the island.
Quotes attributable to Minister for Remote Housing and Town Camps Chansey Paech:
"The Territory Labor Government is walking-the-walk when it comes to improving housing; increasing employment and training opportunities; and creating sustainable communities.
"We are supporting Aboriginal Business Enterprises and implementing Local Decision Making initiatives that will cede decision-making powers and service delivery to remote communities because we are committed to building capacity in the bush.
"Our Government has built and improved more than 2200 homes since the inception of our remote housing program just over four years ago and this figure is expected to more than double by the end of 2025."
Quotes attributable to ALPA General Manager of Enterprise and Economic Development Steve Roberts:
"This is a positive, progressive and exciting step towards better housing and job outcomes for Galiwin'ku.
"Local Decision Making underpins our service delivery model so Yolngu community members will be engaged throughout the project.
"We are so pleased the NT Government has had the confidence in Bukmak Constructions to deliver more housing and empower locals through employment and training opportunities."
Quotes attributable to Bukmak Constructions Chairperson Micky Wunungmurra:
"We have been working towards this for many years and this contract will provide Bukmak Constructions with opportunities to employ and train Yolngu working in their community."
