Senator the Hon Malarndirri McCarthy
Revamped Indigenous Group Boosts Northern Progress
The Albanese Government has refreshed the membership of the Northern Australia Indigenous Reference Group (IRG), which is a key advisory body on boosting economic and social prosperity for First Nations people across the north.
Deputy Vice-Chancellor of James Cook University, Professor Martin Nakata, has been appointed the new IRG chair. Professor Nakata has more than 30 years of experience in Indigenous education, research and community engagement.
Other new appointments are:
They will serve on the IRG alongside returning members:
The IRG reports directly to the Minister for Northern Australia Madeleine King and Minister for Indigenous Australians Senator Malarndirri McCarthy and provides practical advice to support the Government’s refreshed northern Australia agenda.
Minister King said she looked forward to working with the new IRG to help achieve tangible outcomes for First Nations Australians.
“The IRG is crucial to delivering on our commitments to closing the gap, as well as the Northern Australia Action Plan,” Minister King said.
“The IRG brings together a diverse group of skilled professionals from across the north with expertise in higher education, health, finance, economic community development, banking, mining, training and development, agriculture and the not-for-profit sectors.”
Minister McCarthy said the IRG is part of the Albanese Government’s commitment to First Nations economic empowerment, in partnership with First Nations people and communities.
“The Northern Australia Indigenous Reference Group provides practical knowledge and advice to build the economic wellbeing of First Nations Australians, reflecting the ambitions and priorities of our communities,” Minister McCarthy said.
“I look forward to working with the Northern Australia Indigenous Reference Group to strengthen the economic and social prosperity of First Nations people in northern Australia.”
The Albanese Government thanks departing chair Mr Colin Saltmere, and outgoing members Mr Peter Jeffries, Ms Gillian Mailman, Mr Jerome Cubillo and Ms Tara Craigie and thanks them for their contribution.
https://ministers.pmc.gov.au/mccarthy/2025/refreshed-indigenous-reference-group-delivering-north