Kanyirninpa Jukurrpa

Kanyirninpa Jukurrpa (KJ) is a Martu organisation created in 2005 to achieve three objectives: to preserve Martu culture; to build a viable, sustainable economy in Martu communities; and to build realistic pathways for young Martu to a healthy and prosperous future. In addressing these high-level objectives, KJ runs a suite of cultural, environmental and social programs in Martu communities and in Newman. These programs address a diverse array of issues and include many aspects of cultural knowledge preservation, a substantial ranger program and associated land management programs and programs addressing a myriad social issues including early childhood and adult education, reduction of incarceration, substance abuse and governance. These programs seek to provide employment while preserving the deep Martu relationship with their country, maintaining the natural and cultural values of that country, creating greater Martu capacity to engage with Western agencies and developing Martu-led approaches to entrenched social problems. Due to the dominant focus on preservation of the natural and cultural values of Martu country, KJ’s programs are directed predominantly, although not exclusively, to Martu living in or near the Martu native title determination.