Northern Territory community business partnerships recognised

The Northern Territory winner of the 2006 Prime Minister’s Awards for Excellence in Community Business Partnerships was announced today.

Minister for Families, Community Services and Indigenous Affairs, Mal Brough congratulated the Large Business winner, Alcan Gove Pty Ltd and Youth Yindi Foundation, for their commitment to working together for a better outcome for the Indigenous community of Nhulunbuy.

"Partnerships can take on many forms and as a business you don’t need to sponsor a wing of a hospital to be involved. The Awards encompass the essence of community spirit with governments and business working together with communities for a stronger future," Mr Brough said.

"Alcan Gove Pty Ltd and Youth Yindi Foundation developed a program which has allowed members of the community to participate in a number of activities specific to their needs, including language, traditional ceremonies, art and music and history and politics.

"This cross-cultural awareness program is an Australian first in setting the benchmark for working relationships between the business sector and traditional owners for the benefit of the local community and the Northern Territory.

"With this week being National Community Business Partnerships Week I congratulate the Northern Territory winner of the Prime Minister’s Awards for Excellence in Community Business Partnership and encourage others to reach out and help their community."

The Partnership Week events held around the country this week aim to recognise State and Territory winners, while raising awareness of the benefits of partnerships in local communities. If a business or community group are interested in forming a partnership and need practical advice or information, they should contact the Partnerships Secretariat on 1800 359 918 or visit The Prime Minister’s Community Business Partnership website.