Former Northern Territory Labor minister Elliot McAdam AM, who recently passed away at the age of 72, is being fondly remembered for his unwavering commitment to his community. A respected figure, Mr. McAdam served as the Member for Barkly and was praised for his integrity and passion for improving the lives of residents in Tennant Creek and the broader Barkly region. Despite being involved in politics, he maintained strong friendships and remained focused on his mission to enhance the well-being of those he represented.
Born in the small Northern Territory town of Elliot, Mr. McAdam had a diverse career that included a stint as the general manager of the Julalikari Aboriginal Council before he entered the NT Legislative Assembly in 2001. Throughout his tenure, which saw him appointed as the Minister for Local Government and Housing in 2005, Mr. McAdam prioritized his community's needs and advocated for meaningful reform. His dedication to local government and housing issues was evident, with former chief minister Paul Henderson highlighting his honesty and passion for driving positive change across the Northern Territory.
Even after leaving political office, Mr. McAdam continued to champion causes close to his heart, such as serving on the board of the Anyinginyi Health Aboriginal Corporation and leading initiatives against family and domestic violence through the No More campaign. Recognized for his significant contributions, Mr. McAdam was appointed a Member of the Order of Australia in 2015 in honor of his tireless efforts in serving the Barkly community and the Northern Territory Parliament. His impact extended beyond politics, as he played a key role in advocating for the welfare of the Barkly region and supporting essential services like alcohol and drug rehabilitation facilities. Colleagues and community members alike have expressed their gratitude for his dedication and leadership, highlighting his lasting legacy in the Northern Territory.