New Dilak Land Council announced at 26th Garma Festival in North-East Arnhem Land

GULKULA, NORTHERN TERRITORY — Indigenous leaders have signaled a new era of economic and political self-determination at the 26th annual Garma Festival. During a landmark address on Saturday, 1 August 2026, Yothu Yindi Foundation chair and Gumatj leader Djawa Yunupingu announced plans for the 13 clans of north-east Arnhem Land to form a new representative body, the Dilak Land Council. The proposed council marks a significant shift for the region as clans seek to separate from the Northern Land Council (NLC). If approved by the federal government, the Dilak Land Council would be the first new land council established in the Northern Territory in 35 years. Yunupingu told attendees that the new body is designed to ensure Indigenous people are active participants in the nation's economic life, engaging directly with government and industry while maintaining their cultural identity. The announcement was a highlight of the four-day festival, which was founded in 1999 by the late Galarrwuy Yunupingu and Mandawuy Yunupingu to foster "two-way learning" between Indigenous and non-Indigenous Australians. Rirratjingu clan leader Witiyana Marika, a co-founder of the event, noted that the festival continues to show the strength and power of the Yolŋu people. Marika emphasised that the gathering remains a space for hope, peace, and unity. The 2026 festival coincided with the 50th anniversary of the Northern Territory Land Rights Act. While the new council represents a separation from the NLC, Yunupingu acknowledged the work of previous leaders who protected the land and expressed a commitment to working in partnership with the NLC for the benefit of the community. Northern Territory Chief Minister Lia Finocchiaro was among the dignitaries present at the Gulkula site for the proceedings.