Cape York Agenda

Balkanu is one of five not-for-profit sister organisations guided by the Cape York Agenda that aims to ‘enable the people of Cape York to have the capabilities to choose a life that they have reason to value.’

The Cape York Agenda – ‘fundamental transformation through radical reform’ states: ‘Economic and social development is about expanding the choices available to people. This range of choices is enriched not only by income, but also other capabilities, such as education, health and community. Development will require access to the opportunities of the real economy. But to make this possible, we must restore social order, attack passive welfare, and tackle substance abuse.’

Achieving this goal requires implementation of a broad program of economic, social, and cultural development initiatives.

Balkanu’s role includes key strategic objectives:

• build strong partnerships with Cape York communities and corporate / philanthropic sectors
  implement programs for community development
• identify needs and specific opportunities
• secure human, financial and strategic resources
• facilitate project design and implementation
• support business development
• create jobs to enable transition from passive welfare to work
• build or facilitate development of key infrastructure, and
• help preserve cultural integrity and traditions.

These objectives are achieved through Balkanu’s business units.