Taking Stock: Aboriginal Autonomy Through Enterprise

Abstract

The Arnhem Land Progress Association (ALPA) has operated stores for over twenty years in many Arnhem Land and other north Australian communities.¶ Since its inception ALPA has seen itself as both a commercial operation and an alternative development agency catering for the needs of Aboriginal communities. While fiercely proud of its economic independence from government, it has operated efficient, well-stocked modern retail stores and anciliary services. From the profits generated ALPA has undertaken training, supported the work of local Aboriginal Councils, provided scholarships for students, made starter loans available for clan and family businesses, and underwritten community services in all the settlements in which it operates. Inevitably there has been conflict between the "money side" and the "commmunity side" of the Association's operations.¶Sometimes the operations are part of the politics of settlements or the typical grumblings of store customers. Sometimes they are part of wider questions about the Territory or national economy, the politics of aboriginal autonomy, land rights, and the apparent paternalism which dominates many non-Aboriginal dealings with Aboriginal people. In a period when so many stores in Aboriginal and remote communities have failed and Aboriginal directors and managers are a rarity, the ALPA story has many lessons for us all.¶This book is a record of ALPA's achievements, activities and problems. Show more