History
MACH Energy Australia oversees commitments relating to the Aboriginal Community Development Fund (ACDF). The Fund was amongst the community benefits identified in 2005 as part of a Native Title Agreement with the Wonnarua People, as represented by Victor Perry. MACH Energy welcomes the opportunity this provides for us to make a meaningful contribution to the sustainability and well-being of Aboriginal communities in the Upper Hunter Valley.
Established in 2006, the ACDF had a starting fund of $500k, which is indexed against CPI each year. Since that time, the Fund has invested more than $4M into projects that benefit Upper Hunter Valley Aboriginal communities. Funds not allocated at the end of each calendar year are transferred to a Future Fund. The existing Fund expires in 2026. The ACDF committee continues to meet regularly to review submissions made for funding support and monitor the progress and benefits of existing partnerships. MACH Energy representatives form part of the committee to administer funds and manage partnerships.
The Fund seeks to support partnerships that target issues, needs and opportunities which are priorities for local Aboriginal communities in areas such as health; economic development; cultural and community development and education.
