The East Arnhem region in the far north of the Northern Territory presents a unique and culturally rich opportunity. Spanning an expansive area of about 41,000 square kilometres, East Arnhem is home to approximately 16,000 residents and comprises diverse communities, including Nhulunbuy, Yirrkala, Laynhapuy, Groote Eylandt (Alyangula, Angurugu, and Umbakumba) Elcho Island, Lake Evella, Milingimbi, and Galiwinku to name a few.
The region is characterised by rugged coastlines, pristine beaches, and a population of diverse Aboriginal communities. Nhulunbuy (the largest community), with less than 4,000 residents, serves as a remote hub on the Gove Peninsula, offering essential health services and outreach to remote areas.
Download Regional Guides
The following guides contain even more information around what its like to live and work in each region, with additional information about shopping, dining, attractions, Aboriginal language groups and more.
Health services
The East Arnhem Regional Health Service - Gove District Hospital plays a central role, providing acute care services such as medical, surgical, emergency, gynaecology, and paediatric care. Primary health care covers community allied health, aged care, oral health, environmental health, and remote health centres. The hospital's medical workforce is primarily supported by rural generalists working in both acute and primary care settings.
You can travel to the East Arnhem by:
People and culture
Home to the Yolngu people, one of the largest Aboriginal groups in Australia, East Arnhem is a cultural haven. The region boasts rich Aboriginal culture dating back more than 40,000 years. The annual Garma Festival celebrates Yolngu culture and promotes cross-cultural exchange. Families and individuals are drawn to East Arnhem for its unspoiled beaches, fishing opportunities, bushwalking, camping, and outdoor activities.
The region's population comes from a mixed employment/industry group including teaching, heavy machinery operations, and a thriving mining industry, which is the largest employer generating over $1 million annually.
Housing
Housing options range from units and flats to family homes, with specialty stores and a bank available in the shopping centre. East Arnhem hosts 12 primary and secondary schools, along with 6 early childhood and childcare schools. Working in the health industry may provide some residential accommodation opportunities through the hospital depending on your needs.
Weather
East Arnhem experiences a tropical climate with two distinct seasons. The dry season commencing in May offers days of sunshine and comfortable humidity, perfect for outdoor living. The wet season, starting in November/December, brings refreshing monsoonal rains and even more spectacular storms than seen in Top End Region.
