Minister meets with local women from across Groote Eylandt and Bickerton Island region

Tanya Plibersek, today met with women from Groote Eylandt and Bickerton Island as part of the first step toward establishing a women’s consultative group.

Ms Plibersek said she felt honoured to be invited to attend this important meeting.

“This group will help give women from across the two islands a stronger voice on issues surrounding leadership, representation, safety, wellbeing and economic status,” Ms Plibersek said.

“Women supporting other women is pivotal to strengthening traditional leadership roles for Indigenous women and empowering younger generations.

“It is a privilege to have attended this important meeting and to discuss plans to improve outcomes for Indigenous women across Groote Eylandt and Bickerton Island.”

A key aim of this group is to establish a women’s council as an adjunct to the Anindilyakwa Land Council.

Representatives will be drawn from the three communities of Angurugu, Umbakumba and Milyakburra.

The Australian Government has provided $28,500 toward the establishment of the women’s council to help achieve its goals.

During her visit to Groote Eylandt, Ms Plibersek also inspected the construction of the latest Indigenous women’s safe house and men’s cooling off shelter along with a tour of work under the Strategic Indigenous Housing and Infrastructure Program (SIHIP).