Six new homes have been completed in Angurugu on Groote Eylandt as part of the joint $4 billion, 10-year remote housing program between the Australian and Northern Territory governments.
The three- and four-bedroom houses were designed in consultation with the Angurugu community and the Anindilyakwa Land Council, and construction was carried out by Groote Eylandt and Bickerton Island Enterprises (GEBIE) — a local First Nations not-for-profit organisation.
One of the residents of the new houses, Lucina, said a new house "means that I have my own space, my own boundary".
"My new house is really nice; it has a nice breeze coming through. My new house is in a nice quiet area," she said.
In a statement, they said the project provided local employment and economic opportunities, although the number of jobs and training positions created was not specified in the announcement.
"Improving housing is a key part of Closing the Gap; it supports First Nations families and strengthens communities," Minister for Indigenous Australians Malarndirri McCarthy said.
"These new homes are a welcome addition for Angurugu and reflect what can be achieved when communities and local businesses are part of delivery.
The homes form part of the Northern Territory Remote Housing Agreement, under which the governments say up to 2,700 homes will be delivered in remote communities over 10 years, with the stated aim of halving overcrowding.
Special Envoy for Remote Communities Marion Scrymgour said quality housing could contribute to improved health, education and school attendance outcomes.
"The partnership with Angurugu community and the Anindilyakwa Land Council will ensure these homes reflect the needs and aspirations of the people who will live in them," she added.
Northern Territory Housing Minister Steve Edgington said the Territory Government would continue working with remote communities and other levels of government on housing delivery.
"A home is the foundation for better health, education, and employment outcomes, and these six new houses will make a real difference for families in Angurugu," he said.
Anindilyakwa Land Council chief executive Kupa Teao argued the new homes would help address overcrowding and improve living conditions and noted the designs incorporated cultural considerations following recent community consultations.
"On behalf of the Traditional Owners, ALC is grateful to governments for the funding provided to construct the new homes in community (Angurugu)," he said.
"It is wonderful to see efforts being made to incorporate cultural appropriateness into designs following recent community consultations."
