Living & Working in Derby

A unique place. A meaningful career. A connected community.

Choosing to work with Dambimangari Aboriginal Corporation (DAC) means more than starting a new role — it means becoming part of a community in one of Australia’s most remarkable regions.
Derby, located in the Kimberley region of Western Australia, offers a lifestyle that is rich in culture, connection, and natural beauty. While remote living is sometimes perceived as challenging, our team find it deeply rewarding — professionally and personally.

About Derby

Derby is a welcoming regional town on the edge of King Sound in the West Kimberley. It is known for its extraordinary tidal movements, strong Aboriginal cultural heritage, and close-knit community.
Nearby natural landmarks include the iconic Garaan-ngaddim (Horizontal Falls), Gibb River Road, and the spectacular Buccaneer Archipelago. Derby is also close to Broome, approximately 2.5 hours by road, offering additional services and flight connections.
With a population of approximately 3,000 people, Derby offers:

  • A relaxed pace of life
  • Strong community spirit
  • Access to world-class natural environments
  • Deep cultural connection to Country

Education & Schools

Derby provides education options for families with school-aged children:

Early childhood services and childcare options are also available locally.

Sporting Clubs & Recreation

Sport and recreation are an important part of community life in Derby. Residents can get involved in:

  • Fishing clubs
  • Boating
  • Camping
  • Art and culture
  • AFL and junior football competitions
  • Basketball
  • Netball
  • Rodeo and campdraft events
  • Community fitness groups

Outdoor living is central to the Derby lifestyle — camping, fishing, exploring gorges and coastal areas are weekend norms rather than occasional escapes.

Community & Volunteer Organisations

Derby has a strong culture of volunteering and community involvement. Local organisations and community groups provide opportunities to connect, contribute, and build friendships. A vibrant Chamber of Commerce provides links to local businesses and services providers.
Community life is active and inclusive, with regular events, cultural celebrations, and sporting competitions bringing people together. Nearby Mowanjum Art and Culture Centre is a unique hub for the Ngarinyin, Woddordda and Wunambal Gaambera people.
DAC itself plays an important role in regional leadership, land and sea management, and cultural heritage protection across Dambeemangaddee Country.

Supermarkets & Essential Services

Derby offers a range of essential services, including:

  • Coles
  • Local IGA supermarket
  • Pharmacy
  • Medical services and hospital
  • Hardware store
  • Post office
  • Cafés
  • Fuel stations
  • Banking services

For additional retail and services, Broome provides expanded shopping and amenities

Real Estate & Housing

Housing in Derby includes:

  • Rental homes
  • Government housing
  • Private sales properties
  • Units and family homes

Local real estate agencies can assist with rental and purchase options. Rental availability can vary, and we encourage candidates to explore options early in the recruitment process.
Our team is happy to provide general guidance to shortlisted candidates considering relocation.

Demographics & Community Profile

Derby is a culturally rich and diverse community, with a significant Aboriginal population and strong connections to Traditional Owners across the region.
The town supports a mix of:

  • Government and non-government services
  • Tourism
  • Aboriginal corporations
  • Small businesses
  • Education and health professionals

Living remotely often means:

  • Shorter commute times
  • Stronger personal and professional relationships
  • Greater involvement in community life
  • A deeper connection to country

For many, remote living becomes one of the most meaningful chapters of their career.

Working at Dambimangari

Working at DAC means contributing to land and sea management, cultural heritage protection and sustainable economic development in the West Kimberley.
We operate 8am–4pm, five days per week to support sustainable performance and wellbeing.
We value:

  • Integrity
  • Excellence
  • Transparency
  • Curiosity
  • Accountability
  • Respect
  • Ambition

We are a small, high-performing team. The pace can be fast, and we prioritise clear communication, ownership and genuine teamwork.
If you are looking for remote jobs in Western Australia where your contribution makes a measurable difference, Derby offers both professional impact and a connected community lifestyle.
For current opportunities with DAC please visit our Work with Us page or contact us directly.

What we value at DAC…

At DAC, values are not a poster on the wall; they are how we work.
We operate with integrity, excellence, transparency and curiosity, and we take responsibility for outcomes.
We are kind and respectful, ambitious and impact driven.
We expect people to be self-aware, coachable and willing to learn fast.
We are a small team, and the pace can be fast. Strong time management, clear communication and genuine teamwork are essential.
We support our people to thrive through professional and personal development.
We expect you to bring a learner’s mindset and practical curiosity about how to support the attainment of the corporation’s objectives.

That is the work.