The Territory Labor Government has awarded a Groote Archipelago based Aboriginal Business Enterprise, GEBIE Civil and Construction, a $16.6 million contract to construct a 40-lot subdivision in Umbakumba.
The locally based Aboriginal Corporation expects to begin work at the site in the south-western area of the community next month as they wrap up works in Angurugu.
The 40-lot subdivision, which will pave the way for new homes, is being delivered as part of the Territory Labor Government, and Australian Governments $2.2 billion jointly funded Remote Housing Investment Package.
Since coming to Government in 2016, the Territory Labor Government has delivered around 1220 serviced lots.
GEBIE has a team of 25 currently working on a 40-lot subdivision at Angurugu which is nearing completion, with the majority of workers being Anindilyakwa, who are undertaking certified training in construction, and civil construction.
Anindilyakwa apprentice carpenter Travis Kennell is in his final year doing works on Groote Archipelago. He is following the footsteps of two of his great grandparents who were carpenters, as well as starting a career that can bring him more stability beyond casual work.
The subdivision supports the Groote Archipelago Local Decision Making Agreement signed in 2018, as a way to return power to communities so they can make their own decisions about health, education, and housing.
Quotes attributable to Minister for Remote Housing and Homelands, Selena Uibo:
"Jobs and housing are absolute priorities for the Territory Labor Government. By investing in capital works, upgrades and renovations we are providing safe, secure housing for those most in need - plus creating local jobs in the Territory.
"I am so proud of the hard work, upskilling and employment that is happening in the Groote Archipelago. This has significantly changed the social landscape and supported a circular economy not just in Groote, but across the Territory.
"We have worked hand-in-hand with the Land Councils and local Aboriginal Territorians through our Local Decision Making Policy, with the Groote Archipelago Local Decision Making Agreement beginning the process to hand over community housing to the Anindilyakwa Housing Aboriginal Corporation as the future community housing provider for the people of the Groote Eylandt communities."
Quotes attributable to GEBIE Civil and Construction Chief Executive, Glen Smith:
"This contract is the first step in solving the housing crisis in Umbakumba, while at the same time providing valuable skilled employment.
"It's great for Indigenous employment in the island, where our apprentices add to a pool of skilled workers in East Arnhem and the Groote Archipelago, which means they can provide works for repairs and extensions in the future.
"The workers we have are Anindilyakwa Traditional Owners and FIFOS from Katherine, Darwin and east coast who have never seen a community. They acknowledge a different culture and are keen to learn about community lifestyle and culture."
Quotes attributable to 3rd year carpentry apprentice, Travis Kennell:
"It's been amazing to see the big adjustments in the community. I grew up in a 2-bedroom home with 11 people, pretty much house jumping from relative to relative, and that is just because of the shortage of houses.
"I'm a big advocate for having more housing in community, because not a lot of people realise how cramped it can be. A lot of people of my generation who are having babies, young couples, can now have their own homes.
"This is a big thing for us Traditional Owners, it gives us a sense of pride. You watch the place where you grew up, and I feel like I am giving back to the community through my work."
