Local Government Association of the Northern Territory (LGANT) President Damien Ryan has welcomed the news that a number of remote Indigenous communities across the NT will benefit from $15 million worth of projects as part of the latest round of Aboriginal Benefit Account (ABA) funding.
Minister for Indigenous Affairs, Senator Nigel Scullion, recently announced that 37 organisations will receive support for more than 40 projects.
President Ryan said employment projects had been a priority according to the Commonwealth Government.
“It is excellent news as it means there will be more jobs and training opportunities for Aboriginal people.
“It also supports a number of cultural activities and helps many Indigenous corporations expand.”
The funding will go towards a diverse range of projects.
Akeyulerre Incorporated has received $1,170,403 to purchase and upgrade two Alice Springs properties to be used to hold cultural and healing activities, and Barkly Regional Council received $58,626 to purchase a 4WD vehicle to transport sporting teams to carnivals, drive young people home after an event finishes, and take members of the aged care sector on cultural excursions.
Other reciepients included Central Desert Regional Council, Injalak Arts & Crafts Aboriginal Association Incorporated, Yugul Mangi Development Aboriginal Corporation and Aboriginal Resource and Development Services.
The next round of ABA funding will open in September this year.
