Galiwin'ku, also known as Elcho Island, is at the southern end of the Wessell Island group, 550 km's east of Darwin and 150 km northwest of Nhulunbuy (Gove). Only a small island, being 65 klm long and 10 km across its widest point. It is bounded by the Arafura Sea, and the Cadell Strait separates the island from the mainland. There are many homelands associated with Galiwin'ku, and they are collectively known as the Marthakal Homelands.

The first police station at Galiwin'ku (Elcho Island) opened on 12 November 2007 as part of the Commonwealth Intervention under Operation Themis. Before its establishment, police from Nhulunbuy (Gove) travelled to the community on monthly rotational patrols, providing policing services across the district. An incident in 1990 caused distrust towards the police. In 2009, a new permanent station was opened on the Island. With the opening of the permanent station, the police members gained the trust of the locals by getting involved with the community and engaging in sporting and cultural events, as well as the introduction of an Aboriginal Community Police Officer.

It is a four-member station - Main policing duties:

Domestic and alcohol fuelled violence incidents

Petrol sniffing

General policing

MVR -

Firearms application and registrations

Local NTES duties

Patrol of outstations

Marine Patrols and Search and Rescue duties

Local controller duties in regard to disaster management with the local council

During the mid to late 2000s, petrol sniffing became a significant issue among local youth, with aviation fuel being taken from aircraft at the community airstrip. The resulting withdrawal of aircraft services disrupted travel and supplies, leading to higher airfares and a considerable impact on local residents.

The community host a healthy living festival once a year which also turns into a sports festival with many communities taking part.