FEATURE: Worimi Local Aboriginal Land Council

THE Worimi Local Aboriginal Land Council (WLALC) is an incorporated body in accordance with the NSW Aboriginal Land Rights Act 1983 (ALRA).

The purpose of the ARLA is to provide ‘land rights’ (access to claimable Crown Lands in NSW) for the purpose of providing and supporting activities that contribute to the cultural, social and economic well-being of the WLALC Members and community, that support self-determination and resources to manage their own affairs.

Land Council-delegated areas are not traditional areas and Worimi Barray (country) also has other incorporated Land Councils that might be better placed to consider Membership, subject to your residency and community of origin and culture heritage connections.

WLALC supports initiatives that celebrate social engagements, cultural activities and economic projects that empower the local community and change the socio-economic way that people work with our Organisation and Aboriginal people akin.

Through tourism, natural resource management, cultural education, engagement and sharing of information and resources, catering, conference and events, we work to ensure a strong, sustainable future for the WLALC community, committed to improving, protecting and fostering the best interests of our Members and all Aboriginal people living within our Council area.

Our vision is for the Worimi people to be proud, active and independent in our lifestyle, living environment and cultural heritage.

By nurturing strong connections to land and each other, we strengthen our cultural identity and work towards self-determination.

We are committed to building a future of financial independence, cultural pride and community wellbeing driven by the actions and leadership of the WLALC.

Through education programs, employment pathways, cultural activities and strategic partnerships, we aim to create lasting opportunities for the WLALC community.

We also advocate for our community at a local, state and national level to ensure that our voices are heard and respected in decisions that shape our future.

Port Stephens is more than our home – it’s a living cultural landscape that has sustained the Worimi for thousands of generations.

With deep spiritual, historical, and environmental importance, we are proud to help protect, care for, and share this place with the wider community.

Our connection to Country guides our work.

Through stewardship, collaboration, and cultural education, the Worimi Local Aboriginal Land Council (WLALC) honours the past, supports the present and safeguards Port Stephens’ future.

Our Focus in the Region Natural Resource Management. We actively manage and protect the region’s land and water.

This includes restoring ecosystems, preserving cultural sites and promoting biodiversity to ensure long-term environmental health.

Caring for Country is a shared, ongoing responsibility.

Community Partnerships – We build strong relationships with local organisations, schools, businesses, government and non-government bodies to support local and regional development/s that drive inclusive initiatives for both the Worimi LALC community and the broader public.

Cultural Awareness – We promote and protect culture and heritage through education and sites protection engagement, offering language, storytelling and cultural workshops that foster stronger relationships, truth telling/listening, connection and respect.

At WLALC, we’re proud to be part of this diverse region and remain committed to valuing culture, protecting land, and placing community at the heart of all we do.