Tiwi Plantations on the ABC’s Landline
Traditional owners and commercial tropical forestry experts have developed a new plantation model which could mean a big boost in jobs and security for the future of the Tiwi people.
TIWI OWNED
The Tiwi people own 100% of Tiwi Plantations Corporation (TPC) and manage over 30,000ha of plantation estate on Melville Island. It is the largest Indigenous agricultural venture in northern Australia. Within the current forestry management, fire protection, harvesting and hauling operations 37% (20-25 individuals) of the workforce are Tiwi. These long-term, stable employment opportunities contribute around $2.5m-$3m per year to the local economy.
Forestry
For more than 60 years the Tiwi people have participated and led forestry enterprises on their own land. Today, around 30,000ha of plantation area exist on Melville Island, 80 kilometres Northwest of Darwin. These are close to the large mills and processing plants of Asia requiring a shorter sea journey than from Australia’s southern ports.
Governance
The 100% Aboriginal board of the Tiwi Plantation Corporation makes decisions for the Tiwi to continue to secure the economic future through sustainable business in a self-determined and culturally appropriate way.
Growth
The boundless opportunities for Indigenous-led, real business across Northern Australia that create real jobs are continuing to grow. Supporting self-determined 100% Indigenous enterprises, including forestry through partnerships and research is an important component of this growth.
