President's Message

Welcome to the Shire of Ngaanyatjarraku's website. The Shire of Ngaanyatjarraku is a unique remote local government in that it's community of interest is contained within the traditional lands of the Ngaanyatjarra people of the Central Desert of Western Australia. The 99-year leases held by the Ngaanyatjarra Land Council on behalf of the traditional owners also form the boundaries of the Shire of Ngaanyatjarraku. Ngaanyatjarra is the first language of most electors.

The region it serves is diverse in natural beauty, from the magnificent Rawlinson Ranges to the red sandy plains of the Gibson Desert. The Ngaanyatjarraku Shire is heavily influenced by the predominant culture of the Ngaanyatjarra people and traditional law and custom are very present in daily life.

The Shire and local communities are currently experiencing unprecedented challenges. This includes reduction in funding from state and federal government sources; and the need to balance the level of services delivered to the community with funding available, while taking into account comparative community expectations. Together the Shire and local communities are implementing a co-ordinated strategic and operational response to meet these challenges on behalf of the people who live in Ngaanyatjarraku.

Council continues to be dedicated to sound governance; effective leadership; effective representation and advocacy; and ensuring service delivery meets the needs of our community. Decision making needs to be strategic, practical and with conviction to ensure needs and expectations of our community are met and within the financial constraints imposed upon Local Government.

We are committed to implementing the State’s Integrated Planning and Reporting Framework as this assists us to maintain a more strategic focus on outcomes and results. The key to our future success is through collaborative partnerships with government, business, community agencies and industry sectors.

Rigorous and regular planning supported by long-term financial planning and a capable and committed Shire workforce are fundamental to achieving the aspirations of our community and those visiting our region. Council, our Executive and staff team look forward to implementing the Strategic Community Plan over the coming period and to ensuring our community receives the best possible service and representation within the level of funding available.

We hope this site will assist users seeking information on our region and reflect the special Ngaanyatjarra character of our Local Government.

John Damian McLean JP

SHIRE PRESIDENT