Construction work on a prefabricated housing project is continuing, with homes now rolling out to remote communities.
Chief Minister, Michael Gunner said that despite the challenges during the coronavirus crisis – including travel restrictions to protect people living in remote areas – building works were able to continue at sites in Darwin and Alice Springs.
“The Territory Labor Government is investing in remote housing as part of our plan to improve communities and create jobs across the NT,” said Mr Gunner.
“The coronavirus crisis has changed so much about our world but it hasn’t changed the Territory’s housing need. Being able to continue building homes when access to communities was restricted meant we could maintain a level of productivity.”
He said the project represented a $68 million investment through the Territory Government’s Homebuild program, with funding covering all aspects of the project including design, land servicing and on-site installation.
Darwin companies, Northern Transportables, PTM Group and NT Link; and Murray River North in Alice Springs were last year awarded contracts to build 134 homes for delivery to Aboriginal communities across the NT. To date, 74 homes have been completed.
“As well as providing better, safer, healthier homes and building sustainable communities, this project has created jobs and boosted the capacity of dozens of Territory construction businesses,” said Mr Gunner.
“Our jobs-led recovery is strengthening the Territory economy, helping us become the comeback capital of Australia.”
Minister for Remote Housing and Town Camps, Chansey Paech said Through Local Decision Making, communities have participated in the planning and design of the houses to ensure they suit the needs of residents, with provisions for elderly tenants, people with disabilities and extended family groups.
“The construction of these prefabricated homes is well underway and several have already started to roll out to remote communities.
“I know there are many families who are looking forward to moving into their new homes, while some have already settled in.
The Minister said prefabricated housing provided an alternative to the on-site construction model, offering flexibility in delivery and ongoing transportability.
“I am particularly pleased to see Sentenced to a Job participants have been gaining skills, confidence and ongoing work opportunities through their involvement in the construction of these homes.”
