Our Work

Working together as a community to establish a solid foundation towards independence,
community wellbeing, and cultural identity now and for future generations.

Our Work

RRKAC has a pivotal role in progressing the broader interests of over 300 RRK people and in representing them in their dealings with government and the private sector. In addition, RRKAC monitors and implements obligations under the RRK people’s various participation agreements, provides services that protect and preserve RRK cultural heritage, and utilises charitable trust funds to deliver programs for the betterment of the RRK people.

RRKAC offers a range of services and support to members ranging from assistance with accessing the Member Support Program through to employment pathways and personal advocacy and support.

RRKAC delivers services and programs that:

  • Preserve, protect and promote RRK’s cultural heritage and Native Title interests
  • Link members to personal and financial support that alleviates hardship
  • Build the capacity for members to be independent
  • Connect RRK peoples’ with information and each other
  • Ensure the corporation’s activity is compliant with our various agreements and legislation.

There are approximately 315 adult members in the Robe River Kuruma community. The total population including spouses and family members likely to benefit from RRK programs is in excess of 700 people.

70% of the RRK people live in the Pilbara with the large majority residing in Roebourne, Karratha, Wickham and Onslow.

Membership

A member is a person who belongs to RRKAC. They are the owners of the corporation and are able to attend, speak and vote at meetings and can be elected as a director.

To become a member of RRKAC, you must be 18 years and over, and nominate which apical ancestor you come from. You must be able to provide details of your connection. The membership form, along with supporting documents, will be assessed by the Board of Directors at their next Board meeting.

In order to receive payments from the Direct Benefit Trust and to be able to access the Member Support Program, you must become a member of RKKL. To become a member of RRKL, you must be 18 years and over, and nominate which apical ancestor you come from. You must be able to provide details of your connection. You must also declare if you are a member of, or receive benefits from another Traditional Owner Group. You must also provide a copy of your birth certificate, and complete a Community Ratification deed. Your application will be assessed by the Traditional Owner Council at their next meeting.

Member Support Program

RRKAC has a number of ways it can assist members and reduce forms of hardship for the RRK people. The Member Support Program (Program) can offer assistance in the areas of health, lore and culture, education and relief of poverty. These can be accessed through the following areas:

The Medical Assistance Fund is to support members by helping meet costs associated with emergency medical treatment, chronic and ongoing medical issues, along with assistance to access standard health care items.

The Education Assistance Fund aims to provide support and assistance to RRK families for the costs associated with schooling their children, and to encourage the number of people pursuing secondary and higher education.

The Lore and Culture Fund aims to help meet costs associated with members attending lore ceremonies and / or cultural activities on Country.

The Hardship Fund assists RRK community who are suffering from hardship in order to access essentials and goods and services to meet a basic standard of living.

The Funeral Assistance Fund aims to support and help meet costs associated with the funeral of a RRK member.

The Living Stronger Fund aims to generate positive change for our members. It can therefore fund a range of life-enhancing choices and activities. To qualify for assistance, the member must provide a simple ‘plan’ and application for:

  • Health & Wellbeing
  • Sport & Recreation
  • Arts and Creativity
  • Pursuing ambitions and interests
  • Vehicle repairs

The purpose of the Program is to provide assistance to members who meet the criteria and polices. For more information or for assistance, please contact the Member Services Team memberservices@rrkac.org.au

RRKAC also offers a range of services to assist its members with opportunities and to access support including:

  • Information: The office is a ‘one-stop-shop’ for information about RRK activities and service provider options
  • Employment Pathways Program: Assistance to get ‘job-ready’ and connect with opportunities for employment
  • Advocacy and Personal Support: Representation to improve service access and address issues with government agencies and other providers
  • Education: RRKAC engages with key stakeholders such as local schools and student support programs to support RRK youth, encourage school attendance and increase completion rates. We offer assistance with career planning, provide information, support and advocacy around scholarships, training and apprenticeships.
  • Case Management: We work with members to develop personalised wellbeing plans which bring in appropriate service providers to address issues and  leverage an individual’s strengths to help them meet their aspirations
  • Community Engagement: Activities that keep people informed and ensure RRKAC is listening to the needs of its members

Please note: Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people should be aware that this website may contain images, voices or names of deceased persons in photographs, film, audio recordings or printed material.