Oombulgurri community to be formally closed

• Most residents already left; accommodation will be found for remainder

The State Government will formally close the remote Aboriginal community of Oombulgurri, following a process that started with a report released by State Coroner Alastair Hope in 2008.

Indigenous Affairs Minister Peter Collier said the coroner investigated five deaths in the community, four of which were suicides, and found the community to be in a 'state of crisis'.

Mr Collier said the closure was necessary to ensure community safety and financial propriety.

"The Department of Indigenous Affairs has spent the past two years undertaking the work recommended by the coroner," he said.

"Despite extensive efforts to address the issues that have plagued Oombulgurri, there remains considerable risk of further decline in community dysfunction without immediate Government action.

"As a responsible Government, we also need to consider the financial implications of keeping this dysfunctional community operational - this is simply not feasible."

The Minister said while the majority of residents had already left the community, the departments of Indigenous Affairs; and Housing would continue to find accommodation for those residents who remained or had not yet been allocated housing.

"This year, the population at Oombulgurri has consistently been less than 30 people. During August, there were often 10 people or less living in the community," he said.

Mr Collier said the State Government would continue to negotiate with Balanggarra Traditional Owners over the future use of Oombulgurri infrastructure and land area.

"I visited the community in August and had the chance to talk to current and former residents to gauge their views," he said.

"Residents were keen to see something that would support young people and perhaps allow elders to return to conduct cultural business."

       Fact File

• Oombulgurri started as an Anglican mission in 1913, and was disbanded in 1968 with its residents moving to Three Mile town reserve in Wyndham

• A group of Elders returned to the community in the early 1970s and established the Oombulgurri Association Inc in 1985

• Following careful assessment of the community and increased support between 2008 and 2011 the Aboriginal Affairs Co-ordinating Committee recommended Oombulgurri be closed and the remaining residents relocated to a town or community of their choice

Minister's office  - 9213 7150