The Wire

A new policy proposal in the Northern Territory could see Remote communities’ lands further opened up to private ownership. Many of remote communities have a communal model of ownership, but the new Policy Homeland Extra aims to smooth the way for land to be privately owned.

Alison Anderson, NT Minister for Regional Development and Aboriginal Advancement says remote community members should be able to own their land and take out mortgages. While some believe the policy will improve the living conditions, it could also change the kin-based structure of the communities.And private ownership may also radically change the communal lifestyle, some experts argue.