East Arnhem

Nhulunbuy, Groote Eylandt

East Arnhem’s spectacular natural environment spans 33,060 km² of Aboriginal freehold land and is home to one of the world’s oldest continuous living cultures.

With a population of approximately 15,000 - more than 75% of whom are Yolŋu or Anindilyakwa - the region has a rich history of trade and entrepreneurship and offers a competitive location for diverse industry investment.

Its long association with mining operations has led to significant infrastructure investment at a level and scale not typically found in other comparative locations. East Arnhem’s proximity to thriving APAC markets also provides a geographical advantage, facilitating international trade. The natural deep-water port in Melville Bay, which is the second deepest in the Northern Territory, boasts a strong geographical advantage as the next natural link between the closest major ports in Cairns and Darwin.

There are more than 100 homelands throughout the region, with populations ranging from 10 to 200 people. The regional hub of Nhulunbuy is located on the north-eastern tip of the Gove Peninsula with regular non-stop flights from both Darwin and Cairns.

Economic opportunities

• Tourism
• Agriculture
• Mining.