The Territory Labor Government has today signed the Yugul Mangi Development Aboriginal Corporation Local Decision Making Implementation Plan 2021-23.
The plan builds upon the existing Local Decision Making agreement and will create jobs and self-determination for the people of the Ngukurr Community.
This new Implementation Plan focuses on five headline strategies aligned to YMDAC's aims of increasing community control and improving social, health and economic wellbeing for the Yugul Mangi Corporation:
· Cultural Strength and Respect
· Governance and Capacity
· Community Wellbeing
· Economic Empowerment
· Local Jobs for Local People
YMDAC previously made history by being the first group to sign a Local Decision Making Agreement after the Labor Government was elected in 2016, with the Implementation Plan 2018-20 resulting in significant achievements including:
· A three year contract for the delivery of maintenance and upgrades to sections of the Roper Highway and Numbulwar Road
· Inclusion of YMDAC services into Government awarded contracts, including the new multi-million dollar Ngukurr Police Station
· Implementation of Kriol language programs at Ngukurr School
· Transition of CDP to YMDAC
· Awarding of the Youth Diversion contract for Ngukurr and Minyerri
Another outcome from this period has been the construction of the new Local Decision Making Board Room and Offices, which were officially opened today in conjunction with the Implementation Plan signing.
This new office will serve as the hub of social service delivery for YMDAC, and was assisted by Government through funding and the donation of furniture to fit out the offices.
The YMDAC Local Decision Making Agreement is one of five in various stages of implementation across the Territory. Engagement for another sixteen is underway.
Quotes from Chief Minister, Michael Gunner:
"This is another positive step forward for YMDAC in their journey to provide more services for their community.
"Yugul Mangi are proud leaders in this space, and they're having a big impact and improving the lives of Territorians.
"We will continue to back in Local Decision Making, because it opens up new opportunities for Territorians, and is good for the economy."
Quotes from Minister for Treaty and Local Decision Making, Selena Uibo:
"We have worked closely with YMDAC so they can deliver as many services as possible in Ngukurr.
"In just two years they have already made a huge impact – from integrating language programs in school to winning various contracts – their great work is being felt right across the community.
"This Government is committed to delivering for Aboriginal Territorians, and our Local Decision Making agreements are putting more power into the hands of those in remote areas."
Quotes from YMDAC Chairperson, Bobby Nunggumajbarr:
"We are excited to sign the YMDAC LDM Implementation Plan 2021-23 to continue the strong partnership between Yugul Mangi, the NT Government and the Commonwealth Government.
"The strong relationships formed during the first two years of the Agreement have been key to achieving significant outcomes for the Yugul Mangi people.
"YMDAC wish to thank the NT Government, particularly their Big Rivers staff, for their support and we look forward to continuing to work with them."
