Roper Gulf Regional Council’s Community Development Program (CDP) continues to empower job seekers and address employment barriers across the region, with 12 participants successfully completing the Back on Track Drink and Drug Driver Education Course in Mataranka this week.
Delivered on Tuesday 22 and Wednesday 23 July 2025, the sessions saw strong collaboration between Council and ALAWA Aboriginal Corporation, who subcontracts the CDP program in Minyerri. ALAWA’s support allowed five participants to travel from Minyerri to Mataranka, where they joined other participants from surrounding communities to complete the two-day training and work towards regaining their driver’s licence.
Council’s CDP staff, who are accredited to deliver the Back on Track course after completing their Certificate IV in Training and Assessment and alcohol and other drugs education, facilitated the program locally, which removes the need for participants to travel to Katherine or Darwin and pay expensive fees.
CDP Regional Manager Lisa Bishop said the initiative reflects Council’s commitment to providing job seekers with practical, culturally relevant pathways back into the workforce.
“We know that not having a driver’s licence is one of the biggest barriers to employment in our region,” she said.
“By bringing this training directly to communities, we’re giving people a second chance to take responsibility for their actions, rebuild confidence, and access more job opportunities.”
The Back on Track course, developed by Drive Safe NT, focuses on educating participants about the impacts of alcohol and drug use, blood alcohol concentration, legal consequences, and strategies to avoid future offences. It also offers a chance for self-reflection, connecting participants with further support services when needed.
Roper Gulf Regional Council CEO David Hurst said the program continues to have a positive ripple effect across the region.
“This isn’t just about ticking a box, it’s about helping people get back on track with their lives,” he said.
“Thanks to the dedication of our CDP staff and the support of partners like ALAWA Aboriginal Corporation, we’re seeing real outcomes that make a difference in people’s lives and communities.”
This week’s delivery builds on the success of previous Back on Track courses in the region and supports Council’s 2022–2027 Strategic Plan, particularly under the Wellbeing Key Outcomes area, which prioritises personal empowerment, safety and community development.
For more information about upcoming courses and other community programs, please contact Council.
