The Barkly Regional Deal (the Deal) is an agreement between the Australian Government, Northern Territory Government and Barkly Regional Council. The three tiers of government have made a commitment to the community to work with them to ensure the Deal contributes to the community’s vision:
Strong Barkly communities and families, together determining our future and thriving in both worlds.
The 10-year, $100.5 million commitment from the three tiers of government is to improve the productivity and liveability of the Barkly region by stimulating economic growth, improving social outcomes and supporting Aboriginal leadership.
A statement from the Australian Government representative overseeing the Deal, Assistant Minister for Regional Development, Senator the Hon Anthony Chisholm
Landscape of Epenarra: Artist Susie Peterson, Epenarra 2018
"This image embodies traditional ritual knowledge of the Wutunugurra community. It was created with the consent of the custodians of the community. Dealing with any part of the image of any purpose that has not been authorised by the custodians is a serious breach of the customary laws of the Wutunugurra community."
Aboriginal Community Statement
We, the Aboriginal people from the Barkly region, have a connection to our traditional lands and waters, passed on through our ancestors, which continues today through our unique languages, cultures and histories.
We acknowledge our Elders; those who have gone before us; those with us today; those who are emerging and will lay down the foundation for our future.
We acknowledge those who have settled on our land, introducing other languages, cultures and having their own histories; developing our lands to accommodate the demands of Australian society; providing the benefits that this development has to offer. Past developments have been undertaken without our involvement and consultation, or understanding of our needs.
We invite all levels of government, business, service providers and the communities throughout the Barkly region to work with and involve us in the planning and delivery of social, cultural and economic activities to ensure the opportunities which arise are for the benefit of us all.
We commit to work collaboratively with all stakeholders to strengthen our relationships, identify opportunities and deliver sustainable outcomes through a process based on mutual respect, understanding and acceptance of our differences.