The Australian and Northern Territory Governments are delivering improvements to housing and essential infrastructure in remote communities, with six homes upgraded in Banatjarl, near Katherine.
The project delivered a range of housing, environmental health and community infrastructure improvements designed in consultation with residents to reflect local priorities and community needs.
Works included internal and external repainting, outdoor kitchens, electrical upgrades and wheelchair access ramps, as well as improvements to waste management through new fencing and three new waste pits. A new multi-dwelling solar station was also installed to provide more reliable power for residents.
These works have improved safety, accessibility and liveability for residents, while supporting long term wellbeing and sustainability of the community.
The upgrades were delivered through the $220 million Homelands Housing and Infrastructure Program (HHIP), funded by the Australian Government and delivered by the Northern Territory Government. The program supports housing upgrades, maintenance and infrastructure works that improve living conditions and essential services in homelands.
Works were delivered by Jawoyn Association, a local Aboriginal Corporation and homelands service provider, providing employment opportunities during the project. Up to five First Nations participants were employed in labouring roles throughout the Banatjarl upgrades.
Together, these improvements will help ensure Banatjarl residents have access to better housing, essential services and infrastructure.
Quotes attributable to Minister for Indigenous Australians, Senator Malarndirri McCarthy:
"The Australian Government is committed to working in partnership to improve housing and infrastructure in homelands and remote communities across the Northern Territory.
“The upgrades at Banatjarl will improve residents’ day-to-day lives through better housing, improved accessibility, more reliable power and stronger community infrastructure, demonstrating the practical benefits of investment through the Homelands Housing and Infrastructure Program.”
Quotes attributable to Special Envoy for Remote Communities, Marion Scrymgour:
“Our Homelands are places where families have lived, cared for Country and maintained strong connections for generations.
“Investing in housing and infrastructure at Banatjarl means families can continue to live on Country with greater safety, comfort and dignity.
“I am pleased to see this investment delivering practical improvements for Banatjarl and creating employment opportunities for local First Nations people.”
Quotes attributable to Northern Territory Minister for Housing, Steve Edgington:
“We’re delivering practical upgrades that make a real difference to families living on homelands.
“Better homes and better infrastructure build stronger communities and a better future for Aboriginal Territorians.”
Quotes attributable to NLC Land Council Chair, Matthew Ryan:
"Supporting our people to live and thrive on their Homelands remains a top priority for the Northern Land Council across our seven regions."
"We look forward to continue working with all levels of Government to ensure Homelands right across the Territory are serviced and upgraded properly."