Aarnja Limited

Aarnja Limited is the regional body representing Kimberley Aboriginal people, dedicated to fostering a strong Aboriginal identity and ensuring equitable access to social and economic opportunities within modern society. It operates as a collaborative interface between Aboriginal communities, governments, service providers, and leaders, focusing on empowerment rather than direct service provision.

Mission and Vision

Aarnja’s vision is to empower Kimberley Aboriginal people, communities, and organisations to maintain a strong Aboriginal identity and actively participate in all social and economic opportunities. Its mission is to work with diverse stakeholders to create innovative and sustainable opportunities that empower Aboriginal people in the Kimberley region.

Main Objectives

• Promote Aboriginal empowerment by shifting from passive welfare to active leadership and self-determination.
• Support strong, independent Aboriginal organisations through coherent Kimberley-wide governance and accountability frameworks.
• Address critical social issues such as the over-representation of Aboriginal children in out-of-home care.
• Develop leadership potential among young Kimberley Aboriginal people.
• Facilitate collaboration between governments, NGOs, and Aboriginal organisations to expand effective policies and programs.

Benefiting Groups

• Kimberley Aboriginal individuals and families
• Aboriginal communities and organisations across the Kimberley region
• Children and young people, with a particular focus on those in care or at risk
• Aboriginal business owners and operators seeking economic participation and development

Types of Services and Activities

• Providing secretariat and facilitation roles between governments and Aboriginal stakeholders
• Delivering the Aboriginal Representative Organisation pilot to support culturally appropriate child placement and care planning
• Collaborating on regional service reforms to enhance Aboriginal self-determination
• Supporting the Kimberley Aboriginal Children in Care Committee to influence legislative and policy reforms
• Encouraging cooperation among service providers to reduce duplication and maximise positive outcomes for families and children