The Yolŋu traditional landowners of East Arnhem practise one of the oldest living cultures in the world and have been living in this region for more than 60,000 years. The entirety of East Arnhem Land is Aboriginal land granted under the Aboriginal Land Rights (Northern Territory) Act 1976, an important acknowledgement of the continuing ownership of, and connection to country.

Developing East Arnhem Limited (DEAL) acknowledges the various Yolŋu clans across East Arnhem who are the custodians of the land on which we live, learn and work. DEAL pays respect to elders past, present and emerging, and recognises the continuing connection to land, water, culture and community of First Nations people in East Arnhem and across Australia.