The Australian Government is supporting social and economic projects that benefit remote Indigenous communities by taking advantage of a vast food source in the Outback.

The camel supply chain project will aid the creation of jobs and employment-related participation activity, with Anangu Pitjantjatjara Yankunytjatjara Inc receiving $430,000 for the project.

Minister for Indigenous Affairs, Nigel Scullion, and the Member for Grey Rowan Ramsey, said today a key priority for the Government was to ensure as many Indigenous people as possible are working in real jobs.

“The Community Development Fund provides funding to organisations to deliver projects that support social and economic development and participation in remote communities such as the APY Lands,” Minister Scullion said.

“The fund assists service providers, employers and community organisations to create new jobs and deliver rewarding community activities.”

Mr Ramsey said the project in the APY Lands will benefit local Indigenous residents by building on existing camel management activities in the region as well as capitalising on opportunities to supply camels to purchasing meatworks.

“Camel management infrastructure will be established at Amata, Angatja, West Bore and Pipalyatjara. This infrastructure may include the construction of new camel yards along with the repair of existing yards in the Lands,” Mr Ramsey said.

“Participants will get accredited training for a Certificate II in Engineering as well as tickets in the use of heavy machinery, including front end loaders and skid steers.”