Public meeting on Kulaluk, 27th September 4:30pm at Tudawali Park – 7 Tudawali St, Ludmilla NT 0820

Kulaluk–Minmarama: Ostermann Street Update

Recent correspondence and site observations have raised new issues at the Ostermann Street boundary of Kulaluk. These matters add to concerns already identified in PLan’s earlier article on the Kulaluk and Minmarama land assessment. See here: https://planinc.org.au/kulaluk-and-minmarama-park-land-assessment/

Stormwater and housing layout changes

Engineering plans obtained by residents confirm the inclusion of an open concrete spoon drain running along the rear of Ostermann properties. Kulaluk’s manager stated he was only recently made aware of this feature.

In addition, the original layout—which had shown a road along this boundary—has been altered to residential housing lots. This change increases the importance of proper consultation and transparency for directly affected neighbours.

Tree damage and environmental risk

Residents have engaged arborists who report damage to the root system of a large syzygium tree, warning of a strong risk of failure. Mitigation recommendations have not yet been acted upon. This raises safety concerns for nearby homes and highlights the need for independent environmental oversight.

Consultation and procedural fairness

Local representatives had initially suggested a community meeting to clarify the scope of the works, but residents were later advised that the Department prefers to deal with households on an individual basis. This approach does not address the broader community interest and falls short of the principles of procedural fairness under the Planning Act 1999.

Residents have consistently requested access to detailed engineering and environmental plans, and for a meeting where all affected neighbours can view and discuss the proposals together.

What residents are asking for

– Release of all engineering, hydrology, environmental and arborist documents.
– Independent arborist oversight and action on mitigation measures.
– Assessment of cumulative impacts of staged development works, not piecemeal approvals.
– A public meeting covering the full Kulaluk–Minmarama corridor through to Ostermann Street.

Next steps

These recent developments underline the importance of transparency, accountability and fairness in planning processes on Aboriginal land under SD23 zoning. PLAN continues to support Aboriginal-led development that is consistent with environmental protection and orderly planning.

A public community meeting will be held on Saturday 27 September at 4:30 pm, Tudawali Park, Ludmilla. This will provide an opportunity for residents to share information, hear updates, and consider collective next steps.