East Arnhem Region
Shaped by culture, community and Country
East Arnhem is a region defined by ancient culture, strong communities and extraordinary natural environments.
It is a place where Yolŋu culture is living and active, where remote landscapes support deep connection to Country, and where regional centres play a vital role in economic and community life.
A rich cultural foundation
Yolŋu people, the Aboriginal Traditional Owners of East Arnhem, practise the longest continuing living culture in the world. Culture, Country and kinship underpin life across the region and shape how people live, work, and connect.
This cultural foundation offers meaningful learning experiences for residents and visitors alike, through:
Cultural immersion and Yolŋu-led experiences
Art centres, festivals and storytelling
Fishing, camping and wildlife activities grounded in Country
Culture is central to the region’s identity and future.
People and Communities
East Arnhem is home to around 14,700 people, with approximately 73% Aboriginal, predominantly Yolŋu, the Traditional Owners of the region.
The population is relatively young, with around 44% aged 24 years and under, reflecting a dynamic and growing community.
The region’s people live across both larger towns and dispersed homelands, maintaining strong connections to Country, culture, and kinship networks. Yolŋu culture shapes daily life, community governance, and economic development, ensuring that growth is aligned with cultural values.
Situated on the Gove Peninsula, Nhulunbuy is the largest town in East Arnhem and serves as the region’s primary service and business hub. It provides essential infrastructure and services that underpin the wider regional economy.
Nhulunbuy supports:
Regional businesses and service providers
Workforce attraction, retention, and training
Community engagement and economic activity across East Arnhem
The town plays an important role in the region – connecting communities, supporting local businesses, and ensuring that residents can access services, employment, and opportunities. Its ongoing development is central to the sustainability of the region.
Beyond Nhulunbuy and Alyangula, East Arnhem comprises six main communities and a network of homelands, each with its own unique character, culture, and connection to Country.
The main communities are:
Milingimbi (Crocodile Islands): An island community with a strong cultural and artistic presence
Galiwin’ku (Elcho Island): A vibrant community balancing traditional life with regional services
Ramingining (Arafura Swamp region): A remote community deeply connected to wetlands and Country
Gapuwiyak (Lake Evella): Maintaining strong cultural traditions while accessing modern services
Yirrkala and Gunyaŋara (Gove Peninsula): Communities with rich cultural heritage and local enterprise
