‘Refreshed’ Indigenous reference group for the north
The Federal Government has refreshed the membership of the Northern Australia Indigenous Reference Group, which is a key advisory body on boosting economic and social prosperity for First Nations people across the north.
Deputy Vice-Chancellor of James Cook University, Professor Martin Nakata, has been appointed the new IRG chair. Professor Nakata has more than 30 years of experience in Indigenous education, research and community engagement.
Damien Djerrkura , CEO of the North East Arnhem Land Aboriginal Corporation
Other new appointments are:
- Damien Djerrkura (NT), CEO of the North East Arnhem Land Aboriginal Corporation
- Alinta McGuire (NT), Director of Impact & Innovation at Impact North
They will serve on the IRG alongside returning members:
- Troy Fraser (Qld), CEO of Doomadgee Aboriginal Corporation
- Nini Mills (WA), CEO of Nyamba Buru Yawuru
- Flora Warrior (Qld), Principal Consultant of Saltwater Blue Consultancy Services
The IRG reports directly to the Minister for Northern Australia Madeleine King and Minister for Indigenous Australians Senator Malarndirri McCarthy and provides practical advice to support the Government’s refreshed northern Australia agenda.
Minister King said she looked forward to working with the new IRG to help achieve tangible outcomes for First Nations Australians.
“The IRG is crucial to delivering on our commitments to closing the gap, as well as the Northern Australia Action Plan,” she said.
“The IRG brings together a diverse group of skilled professionals from across the north with expertise in higher education, health, finance, economic community development, banking, mining, training and development, agriculture and the not-for-profit sectors.”
Senator McCarthy said the IRG is part of the Albanese Government’s commitment to First Nations economic empowerment, in partnership with First Nations people and communities.
“The Northern Australia Indigenous Reference Group provides practical knowledge and advice to build the economic wellbeing of First Nations Australians, reflecting the ambitions and priorities of our communities,” she said.
“I look forward to working with the Northern Australia Indigenous Reference Group to strengthen the economic and social prosperity of First Nations people in northern Australia.”
The Albanese Government thanks departing chair Mr Colin Saltmere, and outgoing members Mr Peter Jeffries, Ms Gillian Mailman, Mr Jerome Cubillo and Ms Tara Craigie and thanks them for their contribution.
