New Commitment Strengthens Arakwal Voice in Byron Shire Decision-Making
Walgun Cape Byron provided a significant backdrop as the Bundjalung of Byron Bay Arakwal People and Byron Shire Council formalised a renewed commitment to reconciliation, cultural respect and shared decision-making.
Arakwal Corporation Chairperson Cassandra Kelly and Byron Shire Mayor Sarah Ndiaye signed the 2026 Arakwal Statement of Commitment, strengthening the long-running partnership between the Arakwal People and Council.
The Statement signals Council’s commitment to ensuring Arakwal aspirations are embedded within its planning, decision-making and reporting frameworks, particularly in areas relating to land, culture and community outcomes.
It builds on decades of collaboration formalised through the 1998 Heads of Agreement, the 2012 Statement of Commitment and the 2013 Memorandum of Understanding.
Together, these agreements recognise the Arakwal People as the traditional owners and custodians of the Byron Shire while providing a framework for ongoing consultation, cultural heritage protection and mutual respect.
“Our ongoing relationship has built trust and strengthened mutual understanding and now our voices will be embedded in Council-decision making processes particularly in areas relating to land, culture and community outcomes,” Cassandra Kelly, Chairperson of the Arakwal Corporation, said.
“This Statement is about striving to make sure the Arakwal People are considered thoughtfully and respectively in Council processes and planning,” Ms Kelly said.
Mayor Sarah Ndiaye described the signing as an important next step in the partnership.
“I’m honoured to sign this Statement with the Arakwal People,” Mayor Sarah Ndiaye said. “It marks the next important step of our ongoing partnership; it strengthens what already runs deep. Our task now is to turn these words into real outcomes, for culture, for Country, and for community.”
The Statement of Commitment identifies six key themes to be reflected across Council’s work:
Collaboration and partnership
Cultural respect and identity
Economic empowerment
Education and skills development
Closing the Gap priority areas and health and wellbeing
Caring for Country