The Northern Territory’s new Groote Archipelago Regional Council (GARC) has formally commenced operations.
The swearing-in of the first GARC councillors marks a major step in restoring local decision-making to the NT’s Aboriginal communities.
At its inaugural meeting, five of seven newly elected councillors made their Declaration of Undertaking in the presence of Minister for Housing, Local Government and Community Development, Steve Edgington, who described the occasion as a “proud and exciting time” for the region.
“This is a significant moment in the history of the Groote Archipelago Region,” said Mr Edgington.
“We have a great mix of experience and youth, women and men, from across the archipelago.”
The new council represents a culmination of years of work, stemming from the 2018 Anindilyakwa Land Council (ALC) Local Decision-Making Agreement.
The formation of GARC involved a structural split from East Arnhem Regional Council and followed extensive consultation on governance design, including the adoption of a three-ward model: West, Central, and East.
Mr Edgington noted that the ward structure enhances localised representation and supports the government’s goal to restore community control to Aboriginal people.
“Restoring control of communities to Aboriginal people is fundamental to rebuilding our economy and creating real opportunities,” he said.
The swearing-in followed an induction week that brought together newly-elected representatives with key stakeholders including the Local Government Association of the Northern Territory and the Independent Commissioner Against Corruption.
Councillors Violet Huddlestone and Kieranson Wurramurra will represent the West Ward, Constantine and Mildred Mamarika the East Ward, and Gordon Walsh, Fabian Lalara and Gregson Lalara the Central Ward.
GARC CEO Shane Marshall, appointed in late 2024, will lead the administration, which is expected to work closely with the ALC on community development and economic initiatives.
Mr Edgington acknowledged the role of the ALC, particularly former leadership, in progressing local decision-making.
“With both Groote and Anindilyakwa councils now settled, these organisations are well placed to collaborate on projects that support community wellbeing and economic growth,” he said.
The Northern Territory Government says it is committed to ongoing consultation with regional and remote communities, positioning GARC as a model for local governance aligned with cultural and community priorities.
