ADCC helps indigenous community

In September 2006 Coal & Allied launched the Aboriginal Development Consultative Committee (ADCC) to distribute funding to support projects and programmes for the Aboriginal community in the Upper Hunter Valley region.

The fund offers $500 000 each year to assist community projects in the areas of education, training and employment, Aboriginal business development and heritage and culture preservation.

Since 2006, the ADCC has provided a total of $300,000 to support a range of projects such as NAIDOC week and programmes for schools (link to aboriginal relations page for more projects).

ADCC Chair and local resident Paul Wand said the Committee members were very pleased with the community's response to the establishment of the ADCC and their willingness to become involved with the programme.

"In supporting such a diverse range of projects we aim to work with groups and individuals representing the Aboriginal community of the Hunter Valley," Paul said.

The ADCC is comprised of four representatives of the Aboriginal community, two representatives of Coal & Allied, an independent Chairperson and supported by an Executive Officer, who all assess applications from the community and allocate the funding. 

General Manager External Relations Fiona Nicholls said the funding programme is designed to contribute to a strong and sustainable Aboriginal community in the region.

"The ADCC's objective is to provide funds to community identified and driven projects that will assist in achieving the Aboriginal community's "Vision for the Future," Fiona said.

"The ADCC is another component of Coal & Allied's broader engagement with the community of the Hunter Valley."

Click here for more information about project supported, and how to apply for funding (Links to contact details and aboriginal relations page).