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For the people, by the people - First Nations planning steering positive change in WA's Pilbara region

Donna Shepherd AM, Chief Executive Officer, Creating Communities

Jessica Barker, Director – Social Value & Impact, Creating Communities

Keith Hall, Chair, Karlka Nyiyaparli Aboriginal Corporation RNTBC

In 2019 there was big change emerging in Newman, Western Australia, as automation in the mining industry was changing the local economy. In response a collective impact project, Newman Futures, was initiated with a vision to build a diverse and sustainable economy that was inclusive to all. Central to this was the need to ensure community members were equipped to participate in the future of work.

For context, Newman is Nyiyaparli Country. Many years ago Nyiyaparli asked Martu to look after Jigalong when they travelled from their desert lands. Now Nyiyaparli and Martu live together in Newman.

After engaging with Nyiyaparli and Martu leaders as well as other stakeholders, it became evident that participation in education was lagging, meaning it was particularly challenging for First Nations people in Newman to participate in the changing economy. East Newman residents are among the most disadvantaged in Australia and young people were struggling to attend school for a variety of reasons including poor housing, overcrowding, poor health and a lack of public amenity.

In 2022 the East Newman Precinct Structure Plan commenced with three Traditional Owner groups as proponents to determine their own vision for positive change that resulted in a plan that reflects the aspirations of the local community for better housing, public amenity and facilities.

The ENPSP provides clear, informed priorities to guide investment and development to ensure Nyiyaparli and Martu can thrive through change in Newman.

The ENPSP approach represents a giant step forward in participatory processes which sets a new benchmark for best practice in First Nations planning. In this presentation we will take you on the remarkable journey of cultures coming together to plan in a way that delivers on community need in one of the most disadvantaged areas of Australia.

This session will take place in the main conference room - BelleVue Ballroom 1

About Donna

Donna Shepherd AM is the Chief Executive Officer of Creating Communities, a leading community engagement and social sustainability advisory firm.

Alongside her role at Creating Communities, Donna was also Chair of World Vision International from 2016 to 2022. In 2020 she was awarded a Member of the Order of Australia for significant service to children through an international humanitarian organisation.

As CEO (2002-present) she leads a social impact advisory consultancy kick starting change initiatives in some of the most challenging urban, rural and remote contexts in Australia.