Minister for Indigenous Australians
The Alice Springs ice rink is set to make a return this summer as part of a free school holiday program in Central Australia, funded through the Albanese Government's A Better, Safer Future for Central Australia (Central Australia Plan).
The six-week program will offer a wide range of free activities designed to engage young people, delivered in partnership with the Alice Springs Town Council.
Building on the success of previous holiday programs, activities will include 3x3 basketball, African drum workshops, waterslides, free movies and ten pin bowling.
Young people will also have the opportunity to learn new skills with bike repair lessons as well as arts, craft, sports and cooking workshops.
Half of the activities will be run in Alice Springs and half in remote communities.
Activities are expected to start Friday 12 December 2025 and run until Tuesday 27 January 2026.
Last year's summer holiday program recorded more than 24,600 attendances across 1,461 activities delivered by community organisations and local councils, highlighting the strong community interest and the value of providing safe, engaging spaces for young people.
Quotes attributable to Minister for Indigenous Australians, Senator Malarndirri McCarthy:
"This is the third year in a row the Albanese Government has invested in these programs to help children and young people in Alice Springs and remote Central Australia communities stay busy and socially connected across the summer school holidays.
"The return of the popular ice rink will be a highlight for many local families and a key drawcard for the summer program.
"We know when children have access to a range of great activities, see their friends, get out and about in the fresh air they are happier and healthier."
Quotes attributable to Special Envoy for Remote Communities and Member for Lingiari, Marion Scrymgour MP:
"I am very excited that the ice rink will be making a return this summer in Alice Springs. Families have told me how much they enjoyed bringing their kids ice skating last time.
"I am proud that our government is delivering a full program for young people across Central Australia.
"We know that an engaging calendar of activities will keep kids busy and out of trouble, as well as helping parents and families feel supported during the summer school holidays."
Quotes attributable to Alice Springs Mayor Asta Hill:
"We're thrilled to see the return of the much-loved ice rink this summer. It is such a joy to see locals and surrounding community groups come together and have fun. The town can't wait to get back out on the ice!
"We're so grateful for the support that's helping us deliver another bumper Summer School Holiday Program for Alice Springs. This kind of investment makes a real difference for local families.
"Our team works hard every school holidays to bring Alice Springs a diverse and accessible program of activities for all ages and abilities. There truly is something for everyone."
