After many years of work, the first ever Groote Archipelago Regional Council took a major step this week with the official appointment of its first members.

The establishment of the region's first-ever Regional Council was part of the Anindilyakwa Land Council's Local Decision-Making Agreement in 2018.

On Tuesday the Land Council was pleased to announce Violet Huddlestone and Kieranson Wurramara will represent the West Ward, Mildred Mamarika and Constantine Mamarika will represent the East Ward, and the Central Ward will be represented by Gordon Walsh, Fabian Lalara and Gregson Lalara.

ALC Chair Cherelle Wurrawilya said the establishment of GARC is critical for the region as it empowers local people to make decisions on services they need for their community.

"On behalf of the ALC, we would like to extend our congratulations to the new councillors at this historical moment," she said.

"This has been something my people have fought hard for many years to see the return of Local Government to Anindilyakwa communities.

"We welcome this decision to empower Anindilyakwa voices through proper representation, ensuring

that the new council is established the right way from the beginning.

"It has taken time to set up properly, but it is important for the new council to be established the right way that is aligned with cultural considerations. We are looking forward to the future of Groote, a future that is led by Traditional Owners."

Anindilyakwa Land Council is one of the Northern Territory's four Aboriginal land councils.