About Council

East Arnhem Regional Council (EARC) was formed in under the Local Government Act (NT) 2008 to provide core Local Government Services to nine remote communities of Arnhem Land: Milingimbi, Ramingining, Galiwin’ku, Gapuwiyak, Yirrkala, Gunyangara, Umbakumba, Angurugu and Milyakburra. In September 2024, Groote Archipelago Regional Council (GARC) was formed to establish a separate Council for the three communities on Groote Eylandt: Angurugu, Milyakburra and Umbakumba. EARC continues to provide local government and community services to support the GARC region.

East Arnhem Regional Council is situated in the far north-eastern corner of the Northern Territory mainland. The Council comprises five major remote communities, many homelands and outstations, commercial enterprises such as tourism, one mining lease and pastoral properties scattered throughout the Council area.

Two of our five communities are located on islands which exacerbates the remoteness and challenges of providing services to our constituents. 

Our purpose

With the strength of its Elected Members, Executive Leadership, Local Authorities, and staff, the East Arnhem Regional Council (EARC) is dedicated to promoting the empowerment of individuals, safeguarding communities, and fostering respect for cultural diversity.

Through the development of quality training and an inclusive workplace, we collaborate with the local communities to establish effective pathways for employment, enhance skills, and promote personal growth. By empowering individuals through the acquisition of skills and personal development, EARC aims to build capacity, knowledge, and resilience within the community.

In addition to these efforts, East Arnhem Regional Council provides essential services that extend into community and commercial sectors. These services play a crucial role in sustaining the communities, improving quality of life, creating employment opportunities, and ensuring the provision of basic necessities that are not offered by any other organisations in the region.

Our goal is to establish ourselves as a reputable and esteemed leader in the realm of Local Government.