The Northern Territory Government has awarded a record setting $51.5 million contract to build 87 homes in Galiwin’ku.
Bukmak Constructions will carry out the works over five years, providing apprenticeship and other training opportunities for residents of the remote island community.
The contract also includes extending dozens of existing homes under the innovative Room to Breathe program.
It is the largest single contract to be awarded under the Territory Government’s Remote Housing Investment Package which aims to alleviate overcrowding, improve living conditions, provide sustainable employment, enable economic development opportunities, and engage remote communities.
Remote Housing and Town Camps Minister Chansey Paech said the government is walking-the-walk when it comes to improving housing.
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“We are supporting Aboriginal Business Enterprises and implementing Local Decision Making initiatives that will cede decision-making powers and service delivery to remote communities because we are committed to building capacity in the bush,” Paech said.
“Our Government has built and improved more than 2200 homes since the inception of our remote housing program just over four years ago and this figure is expected to more than double by the end of 2025.”
Bukmak Constructions, a wholly-owned subsidiary of Arnhem Land Progress Aboriginal Corporation (ALPA) plans to facilitate a community-based training program for local Yolngu workers, creating career pathways with the offer of apprenticeships and traineeships.
ALPA General Manager of Enterprise and Economic Development Steve Roberts said it is a positive, progressive and exciting step towards better housing and job outcomes for Galiwin’ku.
“Local Decision Making underpins our service delivery model so Yolngu community members will be engaged throughout the project,” Roberts said.
“We are so pleased the NT Government has had the confidence in Bukmak Constructions to deliver more housing and empower locals through employment and training opportunities.”
The five-year contract period will support a pipeline of works in the East Arnhem region, creating opportunities for Territory trades and supply businesses as well as associated support industries such as mechanics and catering.
Bukmak plans to utilise services, materials and products from the region and is exploring the potential for a manufacturing and assembly business on the island.
“We have been working towards this for many years and this contract will provide Bukmak Constructions with opportunities to employ and train Yolngu working in their community,” Bukmak Constructions Chairperson Micky Wunungmurra said.