EXCLUSIVE
By PETER ROWE
The Kimberley Remote Aboriginal Community Leaders’ Network is to launch its Strategic Business Plan on September 4 aimed aimed at securing $1.9 million for the region over the next three years.
The plan will bring together Federal and State Government representatives, as well as other strategic partners, to detail the challenges faced by remote Aboriginal communities in the Kimberley region of Western Australia.
It will highlight the Kimberley context, historical and policy backgrounds, and the importance of collaboration and alignment with current government policies and programs, particularly in support of the National Agreement on Closing the Gap.
“We are pleased to support the Network during this establishment phase. The Network represents a powerful, collective voice for remote Aboriginal communities in the Kimberley, and we are committed to helping it become a sustainable and impactful force for positive change,” Raymond Christophers, CEO of Nirrumbuk Environmental Health and Services, said.
Nirrumbuk Environmental Health and Services are providing essential support to the Network during its establishment phase.
Raymond Christophers, CEO of Nirrumbuk Environmental Health and Services
Benedicta (Beno) Pindan, CEO of Looma Community and a member of the Network is excited about what can be achieved.
“This Network is about our communities leading the way, ensuring that our voices are heard, and our unique needs are met. It’s an opportunity for us to work together, share our knowledge, and build a
better future for our people,” she said.
“This Network is unique, being the first of its kind in Australia, and operates similarly to a peak body, representing the collective interests of remote Aboriginal communities across the Kimberley. It offers a platform for formal partnerships and shared decision-making between communities, governments, and stakeholders, promoting the best chance for remote Aboriginal communities to thrive.”
The strength of the Network lies in the commitment and leadership of the remote Aboriginal communities themselves. The Network is designed to reflect the expertise and lived experiences of
community members, addressing their specific needs and aspirations in partnership with governments and service providers.
The Network will also offer the potential to negotiate better service contracts, such as freight, by leveraging economies of scale. This collaborative approach will lead to greater efficiencies and cost savings for remote Aboriginal communities, further enhancing their sustainability and development.
