4 August 2022
The Territory Labor Government is focused on creating safer communities.
Today, the Government announced two new anti-social behaviour measures for Darwin.
In a bid to link people up with shelters and support services the Territory Government is investing $1 million into:
- a 12 month courtesy bus trial; and
- extending the Foreshore Security Patrols for another 12 months.
Both initiatives are an investment of $500,000 to curb anti-social behaviour and provide support services to those who need it.
The courtesy bus will be run by a private provider with this tender to be advertised shortly. The bus will run across Darwin and Palmerston and will drop individuals off to Batten Road.
Batten Road is able to accommodate up to 450 people, dependent on family groups.
Territorians who are experiencing homelessness or sleeping rough can also access support services at the facility, with the NT branch of Mission Australia providing on-site case management, support and referrals. The on-site support services include drop-in dignity services, vulnerability and needs assessments, tenancy readiness programs, financial counselling and more.
The Foreshore Patrols have also been extended and compliment the suit of $2 million Public Order Response Unit which is running across the Territory.
Quotes from Chief Minister Natasha Fyles:
"This Government is always looking at new ways to approach anti-social behaviour. We know that not one initiative can be used across different communities.
"The establishment of a courtesy bus will allow us to link people up with specialist services, like Batten Road quicker and easier. It will mean that individuals sleeping rough will be able to access wrap around services and get the support they need.
"Extending the foreshore patrol links up with the multiple patrols we have running across the Territory, and allows for positive engagement throughout our communities"
Northern Territory Government
