Council Release Strategic Plan

6 May 2026

Strategic Plan 2027-2031

The East Arnhem Regional Council is the democratically elected governing body of the Aboriginal communities and homelands of the East Arnhem Land region. Its primary role is to act as a responsible decision maker that exercises the powers and functions of local government assigned to the Council under the Local Government Act (NT).


East Arnhem Regional Council's Strategic Plan 2027-2031 provides long-term goals, outcomes and strategies that will guide the Council over the next five years.


Vision
A recognised and respected leader in Local Government providing high quality services, sustainable employment and development for the people of East Arnhem Regional Council.


Mission

East Arnhem Regional Council is dedicated to promoting the power of people, protection of community and respect for cultural diversity in the East Arnhem Regional Council. It does this by forming partnerships, building community capacity, advocating for local and regional issues, maximising service effectiveness and linking people with information.


Values

Human Rights, Work Confidence, Equality, Equity, Independence, Respect, Community


The full Strategic Plan can be viewed here: www.eastarnhem.nt.gov.au/our-council/plans

Consultation & Development Process

  • Community consultations across six communities
  • Workshops with new elected Councillors
  • Workshops with Senior Leadership Team
  • Local Authority Consultations across six communities
  • Engagement and review with elected Councillors

Goals

Goal 1: Leadership Through Excellence

Champion the advancement of the Region through professionalism and good governance.


Outcomes
1.1 Embed respect for local Indigenous culture through all Council practices.

1.2 Continual strengthening of the governance capability of elected members.

1.3 Build and maintain a strong, professional, empowered workforce.


Goal 2: Strong and Safe Communities

Further the wellbeing of people and culture through consultation and coordination of community based programs.


Outcomes

2.1 Work with community and stakeholders to identify and deliver services that are accessible and support the wellbeing of community.

2.2 Acknowledge and respect culture through support of community events and activities.

2.3 Advocate on behalf of community for improved services and infrastructure that support the wellbeing and safety of all community members.


Goal 3: Building Capacity and Sustainability

Deliver innovative and practical development opportunities for EARC’s people and communities.


Outcomes

3.1 Establish formal partnerships within industry to create structured and supported pathways into employment.

3.2 Strong and viable Indigenous business.

3.3 Create opportunities for youth to build community capacity and empowerment.


Goal 4: Built & Natural Environments

Encourage pride and respect in community through care for country and identified infrastructure.


Outcomes

4.1 Maintain and enhance a clean, tidy, welcoming community.

4.2 Maintain Council controlled roads and traffic management to a safe and usable standard.

4.3 Ensure buildings, plant, equipment and fleet vehicles are fit for purpose and sufficient to provide service deliverables through maintenance and security practices.

4.4 Secure and maintain long term tenure over Council controlled infrastructure.

Strategic Plan 2027-2031 1-Page Overview | Strategic Plan 2027-2031
10 July 2026
In East Arnhem, the local government’s youth work doesn’t begin with a program. It begins with relationships.
9 July 2026
Council President Lapulung Dhamarrandji, Deputy President Stephen Dhamarrandji, Councillor Marrpalawuy Marika and Councillor Ganygulpa Dhurrkay have met about the tragic loss of a 17-year-old Yolŋu girl in Galiwin’ku as reported by ABC News on 6 July 2026.
8 July 2026
We're excited to announce winners from the 5 th Annual Eastern Cup Basketball Championships.
7 July 2026
On behalf of East Arnhem Regional Council, we extend our deepest condolences to the family members, friends and community members of the late Evelyn D Bukulatjpi.
6 July 2026
East Arnhem Regional Council proudly celebrates the history, culture and achievements of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples.
30 June 2026
Thank you to the Hon. Lia Finocchiaro MLA , Chief Minister of the Northern Territory, and Oly Carlson MLA, Assistant Minister for Nhulunbuy Transition, for meeting with East Arnhem Regional Council 's President Lapulung Dhamarrandji, Deputy President Stephen Dhamarrandji, Councillor Marrpalawuy Marika, Councillor Lirrpiya Mununggurr and CEO Dale Keehne to discuss a range of important issues impacting East Arnhem Land.
26 June 2026
East Arnhem Regional Council adopted the Budget for the 2026-2027 financial year and the Regional Plan for 2026-2027 at its Ordinary Council Meeting held on Thursday, 25 June 2026.
22 May 2026
A By-election is being held to fill a casual vacancy in the East Arnhem Regional Council Gumurr Miwatj Ward (1 vacancy).
20 May 2026
East Arnhem Regional Council is asking everyone to help keep our communities safe and healthy.