The Hon. Selena Uibo, Minister for Local Decision Making (NT), The Hon. Chansey Paech, Minister for Aboriginal Affairs (NT), Joint Media Release, 5 November 2023

Eighteen Aboriginal leaders from across the Territory addressed the highest level of Government at a special Cabinet meeting on Tuesday 31 October 2023.

The Aboriginal leaders, eight women and ten men, offered advice and guidance on policies, projects and initiatives that impact on Aboriginal Territorians and remote communities.

The Cabinet presentation completed a journey that commenced in March 2023 and involved learning about the government, its policies, programs and mode of operation.

Members have attended workshops across the Territory, as well as the NT Aboriginal Leadership and Governance Forum in Alice Springs.

Participants also learnt how to produce and present effective presentations, and useful techniques to use when having difficult conversations in order to influence change.

The First Circles Leadership Program is an NT Government flagship program aimed to help identify, mentor and support Aboriginal emerging leaders from remote communities across the Northern Territory.

The program is calling for expressions of interest from Aboriginal Territorians that want to be part of the program in 2024. Applications close on 30 November 2023. For more information visit aboriginalaffairs.nt.gov.au.

Attributable to Minister for Local Decision Making, Selena Uibo

“As a First Circles member in 2015, I valued the opportunity the program presented in focusing on solutions in my remote community. It is important as Government that we support people in regional and remote communities to enhance their leadership skills.

“First Circles is a program for emerging community leaders to share their stories and ideas and to work directly with the government to create change at a local level and have their voices heard.”

Attributable to Minister for Aboriginal Affairs, Chansey Paech

“It’s brilliant to see so many strong and deadly Aboriginal Territorians from remote communities across the NT having the opportunity to participate in First Circles.

“This initiative helps participants to continue to build on their skills and knowledge, and to amplify their voices.”

Attributable to current First Circles member, Wesley Campbell – Yarralin community

“Being a member of the First Circles Leadership Program has enhanced my knowledge of leadership and provided opportunities to step outside my comfort zone and grow.

“Knowledge is power and strong leadership is essential to positively influence and contribute to our communities and regions.”

Attributable to current First Circles member, Andrea Andrews – Barunga community

“Leadership is an area that I want to excel in, following in my father’s footsteps. I want young men and women to see how amazing it will be to be a First Circles member.

“To come and experience great opportunities to gain more skills and knowledge. To learn about government policies and processes and how to best influence positive decision making to achieve better outcomes for our communities.”