It has evolved into a dynamic organisation, shaped by the Board’s 2013 decision to diversify into other industries and services. 

Today, ALPA operates in 26 remote locations across the Northern Territory and Far North Queensland, employing a team of more than 1400 across the group – 80 percent are First Nations employees. 

ALPA stands as the largest Indigenous corporation in Australia through its diverse range of commercial and non-commercial activities. 

One thing hasn’t changed over time – ALPA’s commitment to enhancing the quality of life for First Nations people. 

The success of ALPA is demonstrated by real outcomes in employment, training, enterprises, community services and advocacy on issues that matter most to remote communities. 

Chief Executive Alastair King says the organisation works with governments on issues such as substance abuse, antisocial behaviour, online gambling and illegal tobacco sales. 

ALPA is governed by an Aboriginal Board of Yolngu and Bininj directors, with passionate representatives from five member communities: Galiwin’ku, Gapuwiyak, Minjilang, Milingimbi, and Ramingining. 

“ALPA is good for Indigenous people in many ways,” says Matjarra Garrawurra, who has served on ALPA’s Board since 2014 and became Chair last year. “It’s good for us to own our own stores and other businesses.” 

As a not-for-profit organisation, ALPA reinvests its surplus back into member communities, supporting financial independence and sustainable growth. 

In an impactful 2023/24 financial year, ALPA reinvested $44 million into its member communities through real wages, capital investment, repairs and maintenance, community care programs and sponsorships. 

Mr King, who has overseen the massive but sustainable growth since joining the organisation 31 years ago, says: “Our strength has always been Indigenous and non-Indigenous people working together, sharing skills and getting the job done.” 

Retail is ALPA’s core business and the organisation is well-versed in the unique challenges of operating remote stores. It owns seven member stores in Arnhem Land, four under the Island & Cape brand in Far North Queensland, and partners with independent stores to manage their operations. 

More than 90 percent of ALPA retail staff are First Nations people. 

ALPA’s multifaceted Health and Nutrition Strategy works to improve community health through nutrition initiatives, education and research. To support food affordability, ALPA member stores self-fund a 100 percent freight subsidy on select essential items, significantly reducing prices for customers. This model has also been adopted by some independent stores. 

Community is where ALPA’s heart is. By collaborating with communities, ALPA delivers high-quality services, empowers local decision-making and financial independence, and improves quality of life from the ground up. 

As the leading Community Development Program provider in the NT, ALPA serves 10 regions and works with more than 3700 people to get them job-ready. CDP projects include Bukaway in Nhulunbuy, a hub that creates and sells handcrafts; Bush Miyalk in Gapuwiyak, where women make unique pieces of weaving, painting and carving rooted in culture; cafes in Yirrkala and Milingimbi; and a fishery in Milingimbi. All these projects help create jobs and support skill development. 

The East Arnhem Land Youth Model, Gunga’yunga Djamarrkuniny (Helping our Children), is a Yolngu-led program where families teach their young people about culture, knowledge and Country. Built on a belief in self-determination, the program shows that Yolngu people are best placed to make decisions about their communities. This is co-funded by ALPA, NTG and NIAA. 

As a registered training organisation, ALPA offers vocational education and training programs to help remote residents gain industry-relevant skills. Through their higher education hubs, ALPA supports remote students to undertake tertiary studies. 

To foster economic independence and create employment for First Nations people, ALPA has established small enterprises. 

• Bukmak Constructions, delivering construction work across East Arnhem Land. 
• Rulku Lodge, a joint venture with Traditional Owners, providing accommodation for visitors and service providers in Milingimbi. 
• Dinybulu Regional Services, another joint venture with Traditional Owners, offering accommodation, airport safety monitoring, homelands maintenance, and mechanical services in Ramingining. 
• Manapan, a small enterprise based in East Arnhem Land, crafting unique furniture with modern tools and traditional methods. 

ALPA is dedicated to making a difference in remote First Nations communities. If ALPA’s impact resonates with you, visit their website to learn more about their work or explore career opportunities.