Families in Crisis: Implications of change for Yolgnu living in Remote East Arnhem

O’Mealley S¹*, Barr A²*

1. Crisis Accommodation Gove, Nhulunbuy, Northern Territory, Australia
2. Northern Territory Department Of Family And Community Services, Darwin, Northern Territory, Australia

An interactive presentation on the innovative interventions and preventions strategies used in a remote North Eastern Arnhemland community whose client base is predominately traditional indigenous women, men, children and families. This presentation explores historical perspectives, current social problems and their impact on the communities in Arnhemland. Exploration of contemporary innovative interventions and prevention methods are occurring to halt the cycle of domestic and sexual violence, alcohol & drug abuse problematic gambling, mental illness, morbidity & health, housing & education to name a few.

This presentation focuses on a unique population in some of the most remote and isolated areas of Australia. This presentation gives insight into the pioneering methods and strategies that are fundamental to empowering the men, women and children who are victims of devastating abuse. Focus is on capacity building, development of strategies to promote autonomy, independence and self sufficiency in the face of traditional systems and structures of the Yolgnu people.

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