This strategy outlines Council’s three-year roadmap and commitment to meaningful action for young people across all EARC communities.

The East Arnhem Youth Strategy identifies the region’s existing strengths and challenges, while recognising the important work that has been and is continuing to be delivered in our communities. The strategy provides a clear and practical three-year action plan for Council and creates renewed opportunities for collaboration and partnership.

Our 2026 priority is to amplify the voices of young people across our region. Community members we spoke with strongly supported the inclusion of young people in decision-making processes, and value their lived experience in shaping the future. To support this, EARC will create a formal role for young men and women to represent youth voices through the Local Authority and Council structure. This initiative will give young people a direct voice to Council and the broader community, empowering them to contribute to decisions and help shape solutions on issues that matter most to them.

We sincerely thank our Councillors, young people, community members and stakeholders for their valuable input and patience throughout the community-led consultations.

We look forward to sharing more and working together over the next three years to strengthen opportunities and outcomes for young people across East Arnhem.

We also acknowledge the Atria Group for leading the development of the Strategy and ensuring best-practice benchmarking guided this work.

If you or your organisation would like to be involved or for more information, please contact Peter Dunkley, Regional Manager – Active Communities & Youth Services at peter.dunkley@eastarnhem.nt.gov.au.