About

Acknowledgement of Country

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.

Supporting a region in transition

Our beginnings

Developing East Arnhem Limited (DEAL) was established in 2014 in response to Rio Tinto’s decision to curtail production at the Gove alumina refinery.

With seed funding of $2 million each from the Northern Territory Government and Rio Tinto, DEAL was created to support the long-term economic future of East Arnhem. As part of this, Rio Tinto transferred 250 residential properties in Nhulunbuy to DEAL, providing housing for eligible businesses and organisations investing in the region.

Who we are

DEAL is an independent, not-for-profit organisation focused on investment and economic development opportunities across East Arnhem. We work alongside Yolŋu Traditional Owners, local organisations, governments and investors to support prosperity, resilience and long-term sustainability for the region.

East Arnhem is one of the most culturally significant regions in Australia, shaped by tens of thousands of years of Yolŋu history, culture and songlines. It is unique in that 100 per cent of the land is Aboriginal owned.

The vision of Yolŋu Traditional Owners is to keep communities and homelands strong while supporting meaningful, culturally-informed economic development. DEAL’s work is guided by these aspirations and grounded in respect for culture, Country and community.

“At DEAL, we exist to create lasting economic opportunities shaped by the aspirations of Yolŋu Traditional Owners and grounded in the long-term strength of East Arnhem communities. Our vision is for a growing and diverse regional economy, with Nhulunbuy thriving as a strong and sustainable regional centre.”

Luke Walker, CEO

12
Years in
business
1M+
In annual funding
for local initiatives

Our Purpose and Approach

Pathway to 2035

East Arnhem is transitioning away from reliance on Rio Tinto’s mining operations (scheduled to conclude by 2030). This shift presents a unique opportunity to build a more diversified economy that supports local jobs, infrastructure and services.

Based in Nhulunbuy and working across the wider region, DEAL is positioned to help guide this transition – attracting investment, enabling development and supporting initiatives that strengthen communities. In 2022, we released Pathway to 2035, providing a longer-term view of priorities and opportunities.

Pathway to 2035

Strategic direction

DEAL’s strategic direction has evolved alongside the region. Our first Strategic Plan in 2015 laid the foundations for the organisation and informed the 2020–2025 plan, which anticipated many of the challenges now facing East Arnhem.

In July 2024, DEAL released its 2025–2030 Strategic Plan, informed by a strategic review undertaken by Social Ventures Australia. This plan reflects a refreshed outlook as East Arnhem approaches the exit of Rio Tinto and enters a new phase of development. With clear priorities and a strong focus on delivery, DEAL remains committed to supporting a growing, diverse and sustainable economy across East Arnhem.

Our Strategic Plan

How we work

Developing East Arnhem Limited (DEAL) works to drive long-term, sustainable economic growth across East Arnhem by connecting opportunity with the aspirations of Yolŋu Traditional Owners, local communities, business and government. As an independent, not-for-profit regional economic development organisation, we play a coordinating role – bringing partners together, identifying strategic opportunities and helping turn ideas into practical outcomes that strengthen the region’s economy beyond a single industry base.

Our work is place-based, culturally grounded and evidence-led. We focus on enabling infrastructure, investment attraction, Yolŋu and Balanda business support, marketing of the region, tourism development and housing – the foundations that allow businesses to grow and communities to thrive.

Key Statistics

14,700
Estimated resident population of East Arnhem in 2025
40%
Percentage of residents aged 24
years and under
4%
Percentage of residents aged 65
years and older
50+
Businesses

Our People

DEAL’s team combines extensive local knowledge with specialist expertise to drive development across East Arnhem.

We work hand-in-hand with Yolŋu Traditional Owners, local organisations, businesses, governments and investors to translate opportunities into real outcomes for the region.

From identifying projects and partnerships to supporting sustainable growth initiatives, our team ensures that economic development is both culturally informed and community-focused.

Our Board of Directors provide strong governance and oversight, maintaining robust financial and compliance frameworks while guiding the organisation’s strategic direction.

Together, the Board and team ensure that DEAL remains accountable, effective and focused on delivering meaningful impact for East Arnhem’s communities.