The Andrews Labor Government is supporting self-determination by improving the infrastructure of the Yorta Yorta Nation Aboriginal Corporation (YYNAC) in Barmah.

Minister for Aboriginal Affairs Natalie Hutchins visited YYNAC today to announce a grant of almost $1.5 million for capital works and upgrades to their community facilities.

YYNAC was established to represent the members of the family groups who are descendants of the original ancestors of the Yorta Yorta Peoples.

The Corporation makes decisions and acts on any matters of significance to the Yorta Yorta Peoples and enters into agreements in relation to the protection of Yorta Yorta Country.

Today’s funding will be used to refurbish an existing building in Barmah to accommodate the Corporation’s growing workforce.

The refurbishment will include a purpose-built archive facility, and provide a culturally safe work and interactive space for all visitors to the Corporation.

The grant is from the Labor Government’s Aboriginal Community Infrastructure program, which has invested $14.6 million to improve service delivery, as well as the cultural connectedness and wellbeing of communities.

A second round of the program will be open shortly.

Quotes attributable to Minister for Aboriginal Affairs Natalie Hutchins

“Aboriginal organisations are doing a great job delivering front line services and the Aboriginal Community Infrastructure Program (ACIP) will support these organisations to grow and flourish.”

“Giving traditional owner organisations like YYNAC funding to improve their facilities gives them the ability to control and plan for their own future. This goes to the heart of self-determination.”

Quote attributable to Member for Northern Victoria Mark Gepp

“We are working with traditional owners to help deliver facilities like this and Munarra to help close the gap and celebrate their cultural heritage.”