Residents in communities affected by Tropical Cyclone Lam have been employed in real jobs to assist in the recovery.

Yolngu people across Ramingining, Milingimbi and Galiwinku have been involved in recovery work through Remote Jobs and Community Programs (RJCP), with many of these people now being employed by contractors. Jobs include driving loaders, tip trucks, tree removal, cultural liaison officers and providing language services to communicate important rebuilding messages.

In Ramingining there are currently 11 local workers employed by recovery contractors on housing and other construction works. In Milingimbi there are 13 local employees directly engaged in recovery efforts.

Local service providers as well as the East Arnhem Regional Council are also offering employment opportunities.

Regional Recovery Coordinator Jim Rogers said the majority of other locals participating in recovery works are engaged in the RJCP through the Arnhem Land Progress Association.

“The number of locals who are employed across all three communities will increase in the next few weeks and contractors on the ground are actively engaging with the local community to increase employment opportunities in skilled and unskilled jobs,” Mr Rogers said

“Repair works are being undertaken across all communities to fix houses that are habitable.

“Planning is well underway for the rebuilding program. 

Mr Rogers said the Territory Government would engage with residents about how rebuilding efforts will align with each community’s long term visions and aspirations.

“We want residents to actively contribute to the planning and delivery of the redevelopment effort across their communities and how we can work together to provide real jobs for local people,” Mr Rogers said.

Photo caption: Workers in Ramingining help to clear fallen tree debris from the community.

Media contact: Clayton Bennett 0438 824 420