About NSWALC
The New South Wales Aboriginal Land Council (NSWALC) is the peak representative body for Aboriginal people in New South Wales. Established under the Aboriginal Land Rights Act 1983 (NSW), NSWALC plays a vital role in protecting Aboriginal rights, advocating for community needs, and supporting Local Aboriginal Land Councils (LALCs) across the state.
NSWALC’s mission is to foster social, cultural and economic development within Aboriginal communities while safeguarding land rights and cultural heritage, ensuring that Aboriginal voices are heard at every level of decision-making - local, state and national.
Our Relationship with NSWALC
As a proud member of the broader network of Local Aboriginal Land Councils, WLALC works closely with NSWALC in order to receive much needed access to valuable support, resources, and advocacy, enabling us to build a stronger, self-determined future. Stronger relationships with key bodies empowers the WLALC to operate effectively and remain connected to the statewide priorities that affect Aboriginal people across New South Wales.
ROLE & Responsibilities of NSWALC
NSWALC is tasked with several core functions that strengthen and support Aboriginal communities:
Advocacy and Representation
NSWALC represents the rights and interests of Aboriginal people throughout
NSW at local, state and national levels. It advocates for laws, policies and initiatives that uphold land rights and advance the social, economic and cultural wellbeing of Aboriginal people.
Support for Local Aboriginal Land Councils
NSWALC provides guidance, training, funding and administrative support to all LALCs, including WLALC. This ensures that local councils can effectively manage land, deliver programs, and engage in community-led development.
Economic Development
NSWALC supports initiatives that create economic opportunities for Aboriginal people. This includes promoting business development, employment pathways and sustainable land use that align with community needs and aspirations.
Cultural Heritage Protection
NSWALC works closely with LALCs and cultural institutions to protect sacred sites, uphold traditional knowledge, and preserve the cultural practices that define Aboriginal identity and connection to Country.
Empowering Our Communities
NSWALC’s overarching goal is to empower Aboriginal people through land rights, self-determination and economic independence. By strengthening communities, investing in cultural and social programs, and advocating for structural change, NSWALC builds the foundation for a more just and equitable future.
For the WLALC, this partnership means greater access to tools and opportunities that help us serve our members and protect our cultural legacy.
Our Region
The gazetted boundary of the WLALC is predominantly located within the Port Stephens Council (PSC) Local Government Area (LGA) however, our boundary also extends into parts of the adjoining LGAs:
Newcastle City Council (NCC) to the south (Fern Bay and Stockton, not including Kooragang Island)
Dungog Shire Council (DSC) to the northwest (reaching as far as Clarence Town)
Great Lakes Shire Council (GLSC) (on the north shore of Port Stephens and capturing a small section no Tea Gardens / Hawks Nest
Get Involved
We encourage all members of the Worimi community to stay actively engaged; as participation strengthens our collective voice and contributes to the aspirations of self-determination and preservation of Community, Culture and Country for future generations.
