The East Newman Precinct Structure Plan has won the Planning with Country Award at the 2024 National Awards for Planning Excellence.

The initiative is a collaboration between Karlka Nyiyaparli Aboriginal Corporation, Jamukurnu-Yapalikurnu Aboriginal Corporation, Puntukurnu Aboriginal Medical Service, Creating Communities and BHP.

Hailed by judges as a shining example of community led First Nations planning that other states should follow, East Newman Precinct Structure Plan (ENPSP) delivers on a Nyiyaparli and Martu vision, “Strong Culture and Strong Families”.

It addresses some of the region’s urgent societal issues such as social inequality, community safety and poverty, outlining a framework to prioritise housing, community facilities and public amenities with a vision to improve health, education and wellbeing outcomes for people living in East Newman. 

 “We are absolutely thrilled to see this project recognised at a National level,” said Brooke Wilson, BHP Principal Community WA.

““The planning and co-design work, led by the Nyiyaparli and Martu people in our community, has been instrumental in delivering improvements to housing, education, employment, safety and amenities. We are proud to be part of a vision that will benefit future generations living in East Newman.”

Planning Institute of Australia recognised the project for its understanding, awareness, and celebration of Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander culture and tradition, crediting the extent of unique and authentic engagement activities undertaken, high levels of community participation and the quality of feedback received as a testament to the team’s dedication and passion for their community.

Jessica Barker, Director at Creating Communities, said the judging panel felt the plan was an exceptional example of First Nations led planning processes, identifying critical infrastructure that will create ongoing, meaningful health, wellbeing, education and employment benefits.

The East Newman Precinct Structure Plan forms part of Newman Futures, an initiative launched in late 2019 with a vision to build better outcomes for East Newman.

Learn more about the East Newman Precinct Structure Plan.