William Scott
The Federal Government is investing more than $24 million in critical infrastructure and community facilities in the Northern Territory to unlock homes, improve liveability and create jobs.
The Federal Government said it is committed to delivering more homes and is investing $7 million to deliver enabling infrastructure to facilitate the construction of up to 730 homes, along with parklands, within the mixed-use Katherine East Neighbourhood Centre.
The Ngurratjuta Service Hub will be expanded with a $4.8 million dollar grant from the Growing Regions Program.
The investment will provide employment, education, family support and services and a new climate-controlled facility to store and preserve its nationally significant art collection.
The Federal Government is also investing $1.1 million for the Urapuntja Community Splash Park with splash pads and interactive features such as a bucket dumper, ground sprays and water cannons, and an eight-seater picnic shelter.
It is also delivering $4 million from the regional Precincts and Partnerships program for a masterplan to upgrade infrastructure as part of the Nitmiluk Tourism Services Precinct within the Katherine region.
The project is centred on Jawoyn history and culture, developing multipurpose and accessible infrastructure to contribute to social, cultural and economic outcomes.
The Central Australian Regional Community Precincts including Ti Tree, Atitjere, Santa Teresa, Papunya, Yuendumu and Ntaria are receiving $4.7 million for planning and design.
The Federal Government is also investing $1.9 million to upgrade sections of the Willowra main access road to improve road safety and accessibility, as well as $800,000 for important safety upgrades to the Gorrie Road railway level crossing near Mataranka including flashing lights and a new train detection system.
Federal Minister for Infrastructure, Transport, Regional Development and Local Government, Catherine King, said that the Federal Government is investing in the Northern Territory supporting partnerships and projects that provide long-term benefits to communities.
“We remain dedicated to working for all Australians by delivering infrastructure that increases community cohesion, liveability and accessibility,” Minister King said.
Federal Member for Lingiari, Marion Scrymgour, said that she remains committed to ensuring the future growth and sustainability of remote communities and regional centres across her electorate.
“I welcome the funding announced today for delivering safer roads, more homes and increasing the liveability of these communities through improved recreational and social infrastructure,” Ms Scrymgour said.
“I am confident the development of a masterplan for the Nitmiluk Tourism Services Precinct will broaden the community’s understanding and appreciation of Jawoyn history and culture, and strengthen social, cultural and economic outcomes for this precinct.”
