Culturally Grounded Justice on Groote Archipelago

The Anindilyakwa Peacemaker Program is reshaping community safety across the Groote Archipelago by placing cultural leadership at the heart of justice. Delivered by the Groote Archipelago Community Justice Group (CJG), this community-led initiative promotes healing, cohesion, and respect for traditional knowledge. 

With $6.2 million in Commonwealth funding, the program currently supports 29 registered Peacemakers who represent both moieties and all 14 clans of the region. These individuals are deeply respected and often serve as first responders when tensions arise. Their presence bridges cultural practice with contemporary safety measures, ensuring responses are grounded in community values. 

Peacemakers bring cultural insight and authority to their roles. In moments of unrest, their voices guide resolution and restore calm. Their work is vital to the local justice landscape, reinforcing cultural identity while addressing modern challenges. 

LW, a Moiety 2 Warnumamalya man from Groote Eylandt, exemplifies the program’s impact. His journey from contact with the justice system to becoming a respected leader and mentor shows how lived experience can drive positive change. LW plays a key role in developing the men’s Yarning Circle and supports culturally focused programs on social and emotional wellbeing. He also assists at the Anindilyakwa Healing Centre, sharing his story with men referred through Community Court. His openness and commitment have made him a powerful role model. 

CJG Coordinator Tex O’Neill recalls meeting LW at a NAIDOC event. 

 “He was already taking initiative—working on community safety off his own bat. He’s always been a peace maker.” LW’s contributions extend beyond formal roles; at the recent Umbakumba Festival, he volunteered overnight to keep people safe and prevent tensions from escalating. 

The Peacemaker Program is designed to strengthen community safety through culturally grounded approaches. By empowering respected leaders, it creates pathways for healing and reinforces traditional authority in modern contexts. 

LW’s story reflects the program’s broader impact: fostering resilience, cultural pride, and community wellbeing. His application for a formal role within CJG shows his commitment to independence and his desire to inspire young people through cultural activities like dance, song, and artifact-making. 

As Tex O’Neill puts it, “He’s reliable from first response through to follow-up and referral. We consider him one of our main peacekeepers and a leader in the community.” The Anindilyakwa Peacemaker Program is not just reducing harm—it’s building a future where culture and justice walk hand in hand. 

Find out more about PROGRAM here:  

The program directly contributes to Closing the Gap Targets 10, 11 and 13. 

Find out more about The Peacemaker Program » Anindilyakwa Land Council

Photo: Anindilyakwa Community Justice Group team