Photo credit: Margaret Kidd
The Co-op Federation is honoured to share the story of DJÄKAMIRR Co-op Ltd. This remarkable initiative is a trailblazing distributing co-operative which demonstrates the potential of co-operatives to empower self-determination, cultural ownership and self-determination in First Nations communities.
Officially registered on 19 November 2024, DJÄKAMIRR Co-op Ltd is a Yolŋu-owned and controlled co-operative based on Yolŋu Country in Galiwin’ku, Northern Territory. This co-op has emerged as the solution to a challenge that was being stifled by conventional western systems – enabling culturally responsive care for Yolŋu women during pregnancy, birth, and the postnatal period, all within a structure that respects Yolŋu Gurrutu (kinship) Law.
For years, the djäkamirr model of care has filled critical gaps left by the withdrawal of local birthing services, providing continuous support to women during one of the most significant experiences of their lives. Despite its proven effectiveness, the model faced significant barriers. Australian Industrial Relations laws—designed with Western frameworks of time, labour, and governance—failed to recognise the unique context of Yolŋu relationships, creating obstacles for remunerating djäkamirr in a legally compliant way.
This roadblock became a painful reminder of the ongoing impacts of colonisation. It highlighted the need for systemic change and a structure that could balance the requirements of Western law with Yolŋu self-determination.
Through collaboration with Yolŋu Knowledge Authorities, preeminent employment lawyer Danny King, and our own Sam Byrne FAICD, the solution became clear: a co-operative. Unlike any other business model, a co-operative could embed cultural practices into its governance and operations while meeting Australia’s legal requirements.
Photo credit: Sue Kildea. Co-op Formation Meeting Photo credit: Sue Kildea. Co-op Formation Meeting Photo credit: Margaret Kidd
The formation meeting of DJÄKAMIRR Co-op Ltd took place on 12 November 2024 on Yolŋu Country, with Sam Byrne joining online to guide the process. This historic moment marked the establishment of a co-operative that will enable Yolŋu women to deliver culturally appropriate care under a structure that reflects their values and protocols.
DJÄKAMIRR Co-op Ltd provides a sustainable and legally compliant framework for supporting Yolŋu women and families. It ensures decisions are guided by Gurrutu Law rather than imposed structures, allowing cultural practices to flourish and return to the communities they serve.
The Co-op Federation is proud to have supported the creation of this co-operative and looks forward to continuing this journey alongside DJÄKAMIRR Co-op Ltd as it grows. The co-op model has once again proven its value as a tool for decolonised ownership and governance, creating solutions where no others exist.
To read more about this incredible initiative, click here for Sarah Ireland’s article.
