Nearly 200 Aboriginal leaders are gathering today in Alice Springs for the 2019 Aboriginal Leadership and Governance Forum, including the new crop of First Circles members.

The one day forum, held annually, brings together emerging and established Aboriginal leaders to discuss challenges and opportunities with locally-led leadership and governance.

It is the first major event each year for new members of First Circles, a year-long NT Government program that gives 16 Aboriginal Territorians the opportunity to develop and expand their leadership skills, with the aim of participants returning to communities as strong leaders.

Many past graduates have gone on to represent their communities at the Territory, national or international level, which has provided opportunities to advocate for change and connect with diverse networks across different regions.

The Aboriginal Governance Forum is part of the Territory Labor Government’s investment in improving the lives of Aboriginal Territorians through local decision making, treaty discussions and support for communities to realise their social and economic aspirations.

Quotes attributable to Minister for Aboriginal Affairs, Selena Uibo.

“The Territory Labor Government is restoring local decision making to remote communities to empower residents and let the people in those communities decide what is best for them when it comes to issues such as health, housing and education.

“Local decisions are the best decisions. By providing increased leadership opportunities such as the Aboriginal Leadership and Governance Forum and the First Circles program to Aboriginal Territorians, we are supporting economic development, long term sustainability and communities that are locally-led.

“I welcome this year’s emerging community leaders to the First Circles program, to share their stories and ideas, and to work directly with the government to create change at a local level.

“It is important we equip our up and coming community leaders with the skills and knowledge they need to make the best local decisions for their communities, and to have their voices heard.”

Quote attributable to First Circles graduate, Michael Maymuru (Yirrkala).

“Leadership is important in communities. It provides strength and resilience when faced with challenges.

“Showing good leadership helps shape a positive future for the next generations and can lay solid foundations to continue building on the vision of our past leaders. Leadership quality can have a positive impact in all areas of your life.”

Quote attributable to First Circles graduate, Marlene Karkadoo (Borroloola).

“First Circles is empowering our emerging leaders to ensure our grassroots way of doing business the community way is heard at the highest level of government.”

Media contact: Kim Stephens 0417 683 144