The CDEP scheme is only one possible instigator of development in remote Indigenous Australia. But it represents an important, already existing framework by which to link strategically the social policy reform focus on 'mutual obligation' with economic development for remote Indigenous communities. If CDEP is to fulfil its potential, it is crucial to provide options to re-jig the scheme so that it can operate more effectively to facilitate 'mainstream' development in situations where participants aspire to such an outcome. To operate as effective development agencies, CDEP organisations also require funding to strengthen their institutions and build capacity.

Any community desire to distance 'active' mutual obligation CDEP from 'passive' welfare should be facilitated by government. The crucial objective of the CDEP scheme must be to incrementally improve the economic status of participants, to move economic indicators, however measured, in a positive direction and in accord with planned growth. The CDEP scheme will not deliver any immediate development solutions, but appropriately revamped it could be a part of a long-term 'mutual obligation' development strategy for many remote Indigenous communities.