Community Planning & Development

Groups have set aside over $7 million of their income to development projects. So far, 32 CP&D Projects have been planned and at different stages of progress.

‘I feel happy and strong for this [project], for the TOs, this community, and for our grandchildren’ (Clancy Guthitjpuy, Gapuwiyak Traditional Owner).

Our Approach

The CP&D Program is based on the principles of Aboriginal self-determination, participation, strengths-based, equity, flexibility and long-term engagement. 

Our Program uses an eight step process to support good governance and local Aboriginal decision-making at every step of the way. The approach strengthens Aboriginal capacity, control and group cohesion in making decisions and managing their money to meet their aspirations for future generations.

Who We Are

NLC started the CP&D Program in 2016 with the purpose to work with groups to build their governance and planning capacity to control their own interests and benefit economically, socially and culturally from the secure possession of their lands, seas and intellectual property.

Since starting the Program, the CP&D team has continued to grow its reach and impact. Toward this, NLC undertook a strategic planning process in 2020 to review progress of the Program and identify any gaps and opportunities toward its development. The CP&D Strategic Plan 2020-25 sets out key initiatives to advance its Program delivery over the next five years. Principally, the unit is working to regionalise its operations so that more staff are available to work with more groups across the NLC region using a community development approach.  

Along the way, the CP&D Program monitors and evaluates its work to check that our approach is sound and supporting meaningful processes and outcomes for groups through their delivery of projects. Our progress to date demonstrates the benefits of Aboriginal groups having the authority to lead their planning and development based on their local needs, issues and values. Our work sends a positive message to governments and industry stakeholders that Aboriginal-led planning and development provides lasting community benefits. 

For more information about the CD&P Program, download our Information Brochure, Frequently Asked Questions fact sheet, or read about our CP&D Projects, Monitoring and Evaluation outcomes and CP&D Strategic Plan 2020 - 25.

For enquiries, please email cpd@nlc.org.au