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Faq
Frequently Asked Questions
Have a question?
These questions have been listed to assist in the understanding of The Trust.
About Ely Trust
The Ely Agreement
Alcan South Pacific Pty Ltd, Napranum Aboriginal Community Council, Marpuna Aboriginal Community Corporation, the New Mapoon Aboriginal Council, the Napranum Aboriginal Community, the Old Mapoon Aboriginal Community and the New Mapoon Aboriginal Community, the Taepithiggi People, the Thanakwith People, the Yupungathi People, the Tujungundji People, the Warrangku People and the Dulhuty People (together referred to as the “Traditional Owner Groups”) and Cape York Land Council Aboriiginal Corporation have entered into an agreement in respect of the Ely Bauxite Mining Project (“Mining Agreement”).
The Mining Agreement provides for the payment of certain financial compensation.
The Trustee (Ely Bauxite Mine Beneficiaries Corporation Pty Ltd) has agreed to administer the Ely Bauxite Mine Aboriginal Beneficiaires Trust.
What is the Ely Trust?
The Trust is the Ely Bauxite Mine Aboriginal Beneficiaries Trust.
The Ely Trust is guided by the principle that benefits derived from Country should be managed responsibly, transparently, and in ways that create lasting outcomes for people, families and communities.
The Ely Trust was created so that financial benefits from the Mining Agreement could be:
– Received on behalf of the Aboriginal Community;
– Managed in a coordinated manner.
The Trust is a discretionary trust, meaning decisions about how funds are used are made by the Trustee in accordance with the Trust Deed and Queensland law, always acting in the best interests of beneficiaries.
The Ely Trust also administers the Ely Community Projects Charitable Trust, a charity registered with the ACNC.
Who governs the Ely Trust?
The Ely Trust is governed by a Board of six (6) Directors who are appointed from the thirtheen (13) shareholders at the AGM.
Thirtheen shares are held between the six Traditional Owner groups and three communities of Napranum, Old Mapoon and New Mapoon.
You can find our current Board Directors’ at – LINK TO Our Directors page
Who are the Beneficiaries of Ely Trust?
The Beneficiaries of the Trust are the six Traditional Owner groups and three Aboriginal communities.
– Taepithiggi
– Thanakwith
– Yupungathi
– Tjungundji
– Warrangku
– Dulhunty
– Napranum Aboriginal Community
– Mapoon Aboriginal Community
– New Mapoon Aboriginal Community
This reflects the understanding, established during negotiations, that mining impacts would affect not only Tradional Owners, but whole communities.
The Trust exists to support the long-term wellbeing, self-determination, and sustainable future for beneficiaries.
How are Directors chosen for the Ely Trust Board?
By convention, Directors are elected from the thirtheen (13) shareholders at an Annual General Meeting (AGM).
Each Director serves a four-year term.
A retiring director is eligible for reappointment as a director.
AGMs are generally held in November.
You can find our current Board Directors’ at – LINK TO Our Directors page
Why has the Trust got separate entities?
The Ely Bauxite Mine Aboriginal Beneficiaries Trust requires a Trustee to administer the Deed.
The Board of Directors for the Corporation manages both the Corporation and the Ely Community Projects Charitable Trust (the Charitable Trust).
The Charitable Trust was registered to hold assets for charitable purposes.
Who makes the final decision on Trust matters?
All Trust matters are decided by the Board members.
Trust Deed
Why is the Trust Deed so important?
The Trust Deed is a legal document that establishes a trust and sets out the rules for how it operates, including the roles of trustees, beneficiaries, and the management of trust assets. The Trust Deed is the document that provides for discretionary distribution of income.
Appointment of Shareholders
See Transfer for Trust Share – LINK TO page Resources Other
Appointment of Directors
Directors are appointed by the Shareholders at the AGM. Generally, by convention, a Shareholder is appointed as a Director.
Finances of the Trust
How are funds distributed to beneficiaries?
The Trust is discretionary in nature – there are no fixed entitlements. Funds are distributed by way of grant applications – Click to see grant types.
The directors review grant applications carefully to ensure that decisions meet Trust deed requirements.
Why doesn't the Trust pay money straight into Beneficiaries' bank accounts?
The Trust over the last 20 years has gone through various different payment systems. Currently the process is to award grants to beneficiaries of which, the Trust pays suppliers directly. Salaries and wages are not covered in the awarding of business development grants.
Engaging with the Trust
How can I raise concerns or complaints?
You’re always welcome to contact the Trust directly. We take every concern seriously and aim to respond promptly, respectfully and in a way that supports clear communication.
Email: admin@elytrust.com.au
Click to go to Contact Page
How often does the Board meet for Board meetings?
Board meetings are generally held monthly. Community information sessions are also held in community with the attendance of the board members. Click to go to Meeting Schedule.
How can I communicate with the Trust?
Beneficiaries are welcome to contact the Trust to have a yarn. Once contact is made, we will then help as best we can with the matter on hand.
Please email admin@elygrants.com.au or go to the website contact page – Click to go to Contact page
Who makes the final decision on Trust matters?
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