Gapuwiyak continues to be a hive of building activity with work about to start on a new subdivision in the East Arnhem Land community.
The Northern Territory Government has awarded an $8 million contract for a 27-lot residential subdivision (Stage 4) in Gapuwiyak, marking a significant milestone in the remote housing investment package.
The contract has been awarded to A1 Plant and Civil Pty Ltd, a local company with about 26 staff, including five Aboriginal employees working across the NT. A1 Plant and Civil has nominated only local sub-contractors to complete the works.
Stage 4 builds on three existing stages in Gapuwiyak, which comprises a total of 26 residential lots.
The completion of this final stage will bring the total number of additional residential lots in Gapuwiyak to 53, achieving the program’s overarching target.
The residential subdivision in Gapuwiyak supports the remote housing investment package, which aims to provide enhanced housing opportunities and support sustainable growth in remote communities.
The subdivision will contribute to the community’s development by creating new housing options for residents and fostering a stronger sense of place and belonging.
Works on the 27-lot residential subdivision are anticipated to commence late July 2023.
North of Gapuwiyak, in Galiwin’ku significant progress is being made on homes within a new 24-lot subdivision.
Bukmak Constructions, a wholly owned subsidiary of the Arnhem Land Progress Aboriginal Corporation, was awarded a $51.5 million contract in 2021 by the Northern Territory Government, which will see 87 new houses built in Galiwin’ku over five years.
Bukmak Constructions currently has 28 dwellings in progress, based on designs created through Local Decision Making discussions with tenants and regular consultation through Housing Reference Group meetings.
The construction of these homes will help alleviate overcrowding, improve living conditions, and create new job opportunities for the local community, with Bukmuk Constructions providing apprenticeships and training opportunities to residents of Galiwin’ku.
New subdivisions are also underway across Maningrida, Wadeye (Manthape Subdivision) and Angurugu in preparation for new housing.
The remote works are part of the $2.1 billion Remote Housing Investment Package, jointly funded by the Northern Territory and Australian Governments.
Quotes attributable to Minister for Housing and Homelands Selena Uibo:
“Since 2016, a record 2,744 homes have been built or upgraded, while a further 898 homes are currently underway across the Territory under our remote housing program.
“When I travelled to Gapuwiyak recently I met with community members who talked about how improved housing is making a big difference to their lives.
“To hand over the keys to new houses and see work start on new subdivisions in our remote communities is heartening. Also hearing about the job opportunities available for locals in the construction industry assures me our Government is on the right track.”
Northern Territory Government
