Rirratjingu Aboriginal Corporation unveiled a landmark $7 million housing initiative in Nhulunbuy on Thursday, marking the first major residential construction in the region in nearly 20 years.
The Bunggulwuy Close development represents what the RAC called "a pivotal investment" in the Gove Peninsula's post-mining future, as Rio Tinto's operations wind down and new pathways for regional stability and service delivery emerge.
Nhulunbuy company, BR Constructions has been awarded the contract to deliver 11 two-bedroom units - four duplexes and a triplex - designed to meet long-term accommodation needs for essential service providers.
Lease agreements have already been secured with St John NT and Miwatj Health Aboriginal Corporation, ensuring housing certainty for frontline staff in the community.
RAC chief executive Rhian Oliver says the works are part of the organisation's plans to secure the region for its post-mining era.
"By creating housing for service providers, we're strengthening our community foundations and ensuring that Nhulunbuy remains supported and connected," he said.
"While the housing is designed to attract and retain skilled professionals, enabling consistent and improved service provision for our community; it will also foster economic resilience for RAC through rental income and long-term asset growth."
Led by Rirratjingu Project Management (RPM) - a joint venture between RAC and Sitzler - the project "embeds cultural leadership and construction expertise at every stage", the RAC said.
The contract includes a strong commitment to Aboriginal employment and training, with targeted support for Yolngu workers. The construction team already includes a Yolngu tradesperson and labourer, with further opportunities planned to build local capacity and skills.
RAC has also stipulated the use of Northern Territory-based suppliers, subcontractors, and service providers, reinforcing its commitment to regional economic development.
For RAC Chairman Wanyubi Marika, the project is the realisation of a vision to build community strength, stability, and opportunities across the region.
"All of us want to make sure our communities stay strong so our land can continue to support our people when the mine closes," he said.
"For many years we were ignored on our own country. No one asked if it was okay to move here, or mine here.
"Now things are changing and we have a chance to do things our way – to be the ones in charge this time. That's why we have been planning for a long time to make sure we get it right."
Mr Marika said: "We're not just building houses, we're building a future for our people and the generations to come."
BR Constructions Director Brendon Richardson said the housing development arrives at a crucial time for Gove and offers a welcome boost to the local economy.
"As a locally owned company, we understand the value of investing in our own community," he said.
"That's why we're committed to creating meaningful jobs, providing training pathways for local workers, and sourcing from regional and NT-based suppliers and services."
