BACKGROUND & HISTORY
Awabakal LALC is located in the Hunter Region of NSW and is situated in the heart of the city of Newcastle. Awabakal LALC’s boundaries abuts with three other Local Aboriginal Land Councils; Bahtabah to the south, Mindaribba to the northwest and Worimi to the north. First established in 1985, the Council experienced early difficulties and ceased to operate for a brief period o
f time. The Council was re-established in 1992 and has since been successfully operating as an effective and efficient community-based organisation for the past 16 years. Awabakal LALC functions across three local government areas (LGAs), including Newcastle City Council, Lake Macquarie City Council and Cessnock Council. It is located within the NSWALC Eastern Zone and is one of the few land councils operating across rural and urban settings. Awabakal LALC includes coastal, hinterland, rural and urban communities that naturally provide a diverse range of land based opportunities. Due to its predominant urban locale, Awabakal LALC continues to both accommodate and combat significant increases in population, economic and infrastructure growth. Despite this, Awabakal LALC has historically had significant successes and opportunities for crown land-based claims and development. Awabakal LALC now own and are the custodians of a variety of property assets, including vacant blocks, large parcels of land, commercial properties and urban residential land. The acquisition, management and development of land and land-based opportunities continue to be one of the core focuses for Awabakal LALC. Self determination and equality coupled with respect and accountability have been the core guiding values of Awabakal LALC, staff and Board since its re-establishment in 1992. These values which have shaped the Council’s Vision have defined the Council’s focus; support, development and promotion of local Aboriginal land, families, culture and community. Consultation with Awabakal LALC Board, staff and members have revealed that these values continue to be the core governing principles of the Council; acknowledging member’s aspirations and enhancing the social, cultural and economic well-being and self sustainability of the local Aboriginal community. Awabakal LALC continues to ensure that all legislative requirements of the NSWALC and NSW State Government are practised and adhered to. They continually strive to enhance the sustainability and well-being of its members and the local Aboriginal community. Historically Awabakal LALC have promoted and strengthened local Aboriginal community and culture. They aim to continue and further this achievement throughout and beyond the coming three years.
