Gibson Desert Area Council has expanded its Outstation Living Support Program, delivering essential infrastructure, services, and supplies to 15 remote Aboriginal outstations across the vast Gibson Desert region, enabling families to maintain their connection to traditional country.
The $4.2 million program upgrade includes improved airstrips, solar power systems, water infrastructure, and regular supply runs that ensure outstation residents can live safely on their ancestral lands while maintaining access to essential services and emergency support.
"Living on outstation is about more than lifestyle - it's about maintaining our connection to country, teaching our children their culture, and keeping our old people strong. This program makes that possible by providing the basic services everyone needs."
Program Services
The Outstation Support Program delivers comprehensive assistance:
Support Components
- Supply Runs: Fortnightly delivery of food, fuel, and essential supplies
- Power Systems: Installation and maintenance of solar power
- Water Infrastructure: Bores, tanks, and water treatment systems
- Airstrip Maintenance: Keeping remote airstrips operational for medical evacuations
- Housing Repairs: Maintenance of outstation dwellings
- Transport: Vehicle support and maintenance assistance
Community Benefits
The program delivers significant quality of life improvements:
Health Outcomes
Reduced chronic disease through active lifestyle on country
Cultural Strength
Intergenerational knowledge transfer in traditional settings
Economic Activity
Art production and ranger employment opportunities
Infrastructure Investment
Recent upgrades include significant infrastructure works:
- Solar Systems: 50 new installations providing reliable power
- Water Security: 20 new bores and upgraded water storage
- Airstrips: 8 remote airstrips upgraded for medical access
- Communications: Satellite internet and emergency beacons
Outstation Locations
The program supports 15 remote outstations including:
- Kiwirrkurra - Pintupi homelands
- Patjarr - Wiluna-Meekatharra road
- Tjukurla - Western Desert communities
- Warburton - Ngaanyatjarra lands
Supporting Remote Living
The Outstation Support Program helps families maintain their connection to country. For more information about services or outstation living, contact our community development team.
Contact Community Development
