Published: 28 May 2024

On Tuesday 28 May 2024 signatories to the Maningrida Local Decision Making (LDM) Agreement celebrated committing to the five year LDM Agreement through bunggul performances and a community meeting.

This marks the fifteenth LDM Agreement signed in the Territory. Maningrida is a service hub to the surrounding region, with 11 language groups living harmoniously in the large community. Extensive consultation was undertaken over a period of years to ensure that many voices were heard and the compilation of the LDM priorities best reflected the cultural diversity of the region.

The Five year LDM Agreement for Maningrida formalises a commitment from a diverse array of signatories representing both community and governments to work collaboratively to progress 10 strategic priority areas. Whilst some priorities have been progressed, including Murnun Men’s Shed and Women’s Cultural Hub, led by Mala’la Health Service Aboriginal Corporation; and Nja-marleya Cultural Leaders and Justice Group and Homelands School Company, other priorities require significant implementation coordination over the coming months.

Guided by the principles of self-determination, place-based, flexible, co-design and community control, the Maningrida LDM Agreement (attended by Hon Eva Lawler MLA, the Hon Selina Uibo MLA and Member for Arafura Manuel Brown) demonstrates a commitment from the Northern Territory Government to partnering with the community in a meaningful way for the shared governance and control of service delivery.