Minister for Indigenous Australians
The Albanese Labor Government is delivering on its commitment to keep women and children safe in Central Australia, with more emergency accommodation now available for First Nations families in Alice Springs.
The government has invested $4.9 million to expand Apmere Mwerre Visitors Park (AMVP), providing 20 additional short-term beds.
Operated by Aboriginal Hostels Limited (AHL) the AMVP provides safe and affordable accommodation for First Nations people, including women and children experiencing family and domestic violence.
These new facilities will help ensure families have a secure place to stay when they need it most.
The expansion also includes improvements to make AMVP more comfortable for families including a renovated children's playground and baby change area.
This investment is part of the Albanese Government's landmark plan to deliver A Better, Safer Future for Central Australia (the Central Australia Plan).
Quotes attributable to Minister for Indigenous Australians, Senator Malarndirri McCarthy:
"This investment is about dignity, safety and respect, ensuring First Nations women and children have access to a safe place to stay, especially in times of crisis.
"All women and children deserve to feel safe and supported.
"Investments like this reflect the Albanese Government's commitment to working with communities as part of the Central Australia Plan, listening to their needs and delivering practical support that makes a real difference in people's lives."
Quotes attributable to Special Envoy for Remote Communities and Member for Lingiari, Marion Scrymgour:
"This expansion is a direct response to what our community has been telling us, that we need more culturally safe accommodation options.
"It's a step forward in supporting mobility, access to services and keeping families together here in Alice Springs.
"These extra beds mean women and children escaping violence have somewhere safe to go, a place that respects culture and offers comfort in tough times."
Quotes attributable to Aboriginal Hostels Limited Chief Executive Officer, Shane Hamilton PSM:
"This milestone strengthens our capacity to support more First Nations people, including families, in need of a safe place to stay, especially in Central Australia.
"This investment will make a real difference in the lives of First Nations people and reflects AHL's ongoing commitment to providing culturally safe and affordable accommodation for First Nations people.
"I'd like to extend my thanks to community members and service providers AHL partnered with during this project, to ensure the upgrades were culturally safe, aligned with community expectations and successfully delivered.
"The expanded accommodation at AMVP is a step towards growing our impact where we are most needed. AHL's vision is to be more than just an accommodation provider, we aspire to be a national leader in housing, healing and opportunity for First Nations people."
