An Aboriginal women's organisation spanning some of Australia's most remote communities has begun celebrations marking 45 years of advocacy and leadership.
The NPY Women's Council — which represents Ngaanyatjarra, Pitjantjatjara and Yankunytjatjara women across the tri-state border region of Western Australia, South Australia and the Northern Territory — this week marked the milestone with a gathering of community members, and partners.
The afternoon event brought together Anangu women from across the NPY region, a vast area of central Australia covering desert communities from the APY Lands to the Ngaanyatjarra Lands, to reflect on nearly half a century of grassroots organising and community-led change.
Long-time collaborator Dr Diana James, described by the organisation as a malpa wiru (a good partner), spoke about the history and values that have shaped the council's work since its establishment in 1980.
The gathering marked the beginning of a broader anniversary program recognising the role of Aboriginal women in advocating for safety, health, cultural strength and self-determination in remote communities.
NPY Women's Council was founded by Anangu women to ensure their voices were heard in decisions affecting their lives and families, and has since become a nationally recognised organisation delivering services and policy advocacy grounded in lived experience.
