Safe Stay Plan for Remote Community Visitors

A new accommodation facility in Darwin will offer a safe place to stay for visitors from remote communities.

Part of a former workers’ village in Marrara has been repurposed to assist vulnerable Territorians during the COVID-19 pandemic.

The facility will open on 5 June to coincide with the lifting of biosecurity restrictions in remote communities, complementing existing commercial options in the Greater Darwin area.

Nationally registered Aboriginal community housing provider, Yilli Rreung Housing Aboriginal Corporation will manage the 24/7 accommodation centre.

Up to 50 short-stay beds will be available at the new facility that will initially operate for a two-month period.

Meals, as well as laundry and ablution facilities will be available for overnight visitors.

Increased options for people who are homeless, including rough sleepers, will also be available at other existing accommodation venues to complement current capacity.

The Batten Road facility aligns with the NT Government’s homelessness strategy and supports its five-point plan to tackle anti-social behaviour.

As noted by Minister for Local Government, Housing and Community Development, Gerry McCarthy:

“The COVID-19 pandemic has presented immediate and unique demands for extra services and the Batten Road facility will supplement accommodation capacity in the Greater Darwin region.

“Separately, we are working with the non-government organisation sector on a model that integrates specialist homelessness services to deliver improved outcomes for Territorians in-need and the non-government services dedicated to supporting them.

“The Territory Labor Government supports the delivery of better pathways into reducing homelessness, addressing anti-social behaviour and restoring dignity for the Territory’s most vulnerable citizens.”

As noted by Yilli Rreung Managing Director Leeanne Caton:

“As the largest Indigenous housing organisation providing housing, municipal and infrastructure services in Darwin, Yilli Housing is well placed to manage the Batten Road accommodation facility.

“As Darwin is a major service centre, people from remote areas often visit Darwin for extended periods for family, recreational, shopping, medical and legal reasons.

“This facility will assist with the immediate needs of people who often don’t have any place to stay. An accommodation service such as this will hopefully ease the potential overcrowding in the Darwin-based community living areas.”

/Public Release. View in full here.