The Central Land Council welcomes the Commonwealth’s decision to double the Remote Jobs Economic Development program from 3,000 to 6,000 jobs by 2030.
CLC chair Warren Williams said the council has been calling for remote employment reform for more than a decade.
He said although several factors contribute to low employment in remote communities, the most critical is the shortage of available jobs.
“This is exactly the kind of investment our communities need,” Mr Williams said.
“Real jobs in our communities keep our communities strong. They give us skills, income and dignity, and they allow families to stay on country.
“When our people have meaningful work, they can stay on their lands, keep practising culture and grow up strong young people.
“Without local jobs, we can’t close the gap and get to true self-determination,” he said.
CLC chief executive Les Turner said the expanded program is a significant step toward delivering long-overdue economic opportunities in remote Aboriginal communities.
“Creating more employment on the ground creates a strong foundation for our people to thrive,” Mr Turner said.