The Coen Regional Aboriginal Corporation aims to be a benchmark sub-regional organisation driving economic and social development for the indigenous people of Coen and supports a happy, healthy and proud indigenous community.
The Coen Regional Aboriginal Corporation will implement a range of social and community development initiatives that focus on local leadership and enabling resilience.
Coen Regional Aboriginal Corporation is a successful sub-regional organisation that operates commercial businesses, provides fee-for-service contract and financial administration, has community/participatory planning capacity and implements social and community development programs for the benefit of Coen people.
Business & Economic development initiatives will underpin a strong financial position and deliver employment opportunities for the local indigenous people as well as improved quality of lifestyle for families.
As a growing property owner within Coen, CRAC will maintain its property management portfolio and high rate of property tenancy. CRAC will develop additional businesses in the accommodation sectors to grow its business arm and create additional employment for local people.
An experienced local team will implement locally developed social services and community development initiatives that offer personal and family support. CRAC will continue with a wide range of women’s support initiatives and continue working with men to frame support initiatives for them, a comprehensive justice program for Coen that places the Justice Committee the Elders group and the Coen Justice Program team central to the ongoing engagement with the community as a means to resolve conflict and dispute; and an Arts Centre with activities that link all cohorts of the community in the production of art.
CRAC’s staff of thirteen, all local Coen people, includes a senior management team of two: a CEO with twenty-five years of experience in leadership roles within Indigenous organisations and a General Manager with a strong local background and six years of managerial experience.
The CEO oversees all commercial and financial activities, manages relationships with third parties and the government, and ensures compliance with all regulations, with significant duties delegated to the General Manager. This commitment to local employment and development has led to high staff retention, with all current positions filled by trained and qualified local personnel.
CRAC owns and manages a diverse portfolio of properties in Coen, leasing them to various organizations and government departments, with all property-related expenses such as rates, insurance, and maintenance handled internally.
CRAC currently has commercial tenancy arrangements with:
Department of Housing and Public Works
Family Responsibiities Commission
Oyola Thumotang Land Trust
Apunipima Cape York Health Council
CRAC’s enhanced management capabilities have enabled the tailored development and successful implementation of community-focused programs and initiatives, including the Coen Women’s Support Centre and Coen Justice Program, reflecting the specific needs and priorities of the Coen community.
CRAC in the 2024/2025 year has grant funding for the implementation of:
Coen Justice Program operations
Coen’s Women’s Shelter operations
Local Thriving Communities operations
Queensland Mental Health Commission
–Local Counsellor program
CRAC is dedicated to sustaining high commercial property occupancy by fostering strong tenant relationships, maintaining property conditions, and adhering to governmental regulations.
CRAC commits to upholding ongoing funding agreements for vital social services by ensuring regulatory compliance, staff qualifications, timely implementation of plans, and fulfillment of reporting requirements.
From July 2024, CRAC will begin a culturally enriching arts program in Coen to enhance local skills development and community engagement.
By June 2026, CRAC aims to engage at least forty local participants in the arts program and host three separate exhibitions showcasing Coen’s artistic works.
Throughout the program duration, CRAC will identify and support the career development of at least three local artists, ensuring their professional growth within the arts community.