Housing upgrades for remote NT communities

The Northern Territory Government has delivered a joint $3.6 million upgrade of housing and infrastructure in Mungkarta, an Aboriginal homeland 80km south of Tennant Creek.

The joint NT  and Federal  Government investment is part of the Homelands Housing and Infrastructure Program (HHIP), a collaborative initiative to improve living conditions in remote homelands across the Northern Territory.

The upgrades to the final four houses of 13 homes in Mungkarta were completed this month, ensuring residents have access to safe, functional and appropriate housing.

Minister for Housing, Local Government and Community Development, and Member for Barkly Steve Edgington, who visited the community of Mungkarta, said investing in homelands is important to ensure upgrades to housing and infrastructure.

“In our year of action, certainty and security, we are making a real difference, improving living conditions, strengthening community resilience, and supporting a better future for Territorians,” he said.

The program aims to improve the safety, health and wellbeing of residents by providing access to washing facilities, improving nutrition and temperature control, and reducing dust exposure and the negative health impacts of overcrowding.

The Territory Government has contributed $40 million annually to support essential services in Aboriginal homelands, ensuring coordinated investment in housing, infrastructure and services, while the Australian Government has committed $220 million through the program since 2023.

Mr Edgington said the upgrades are a great example of what can be achieved when the Northern Territory and Australian Governments work together in partnership with homelands and the Land Councils.

“While the Australian Government is investing in housing upgrades through the program, the Government continues its annual $40 million commitment to support essential services in homelands – helping keep communities strong, liveable and connected.”

Minister for Indigenous Australians, Senator Malarndirri McCarthy, said investing in homelands is a priority for the Australian Government to ensure upgrades to housing and infrastructure.

“This investment ensures families have access to safe and appropriate homes that support better health and wellbeing,” she said.

John Duggie, Mungkarta Traditional Owner, said the houses look great.

“I am happy with all the houses … We especially love the new verandas. We thank you mob for making these houses for us,” he said.