The Barkly Regional Deal has been renewed, with all three levels of government signing a new Statement of Commitment to the region.
Member for Barkly Steve Edgington, who helped start the Deal while he was Barkly Mayor in 2019, says the focus now is on finishing what was promised to Barkly residents.
Families across the Barkly are already seeing results, and more projects are on the way.
The Territory and Australian Governments and Barkly Regional Council have signed a new Statement of Commitment to the Barkly Regional Deal.
Signed in 2019, the Barkly Deal was the first Regional Deal in Australia. It is a 10-year, $100 million partnership covering 28 initiatives, and Barkly people chose its priorities.
Local MLA and Minister for Housing, Local Government and Community Development Steve Edgington said the Deal had always belonged to the Barkly.
"Back when I was Mayor, I helped start this Deal and signed it because our communities asked for it. My commitment hasn't changed," Minister Edgington said.
"As the local member, my job now is to make sure every remaining commitment is delivered for Barkly families."
Barkly residents are already seeing what the Deal has delivered:
Tennant Creek has a new youth centre and a youth justice facility The Barkly Business Hub has been refurbishedThe Alpurrurulam airstrip has been upgradeda housing partnership is building new homes for localsconstruction is underway on the Tennant Creek student boarding facility to house 40 students at Tennant Creek High School, so bush kids can stay close to family and get a full education.
"Families in Ali Curung, Elliott, Alpurrurulam and our homelands have told me for years that their kids need a safe place to stay while they go to high school. I'm pleased to see that being built," Minister Edgington said.
"People in Tennant Creek have waited a long time for the weather radar. It's on track for 2027, and I'll keep pushing until it's switched on.
"I am also looking forward to seeing the new youth centre in Ali Curung and new visitor accommodation in Tennant Creek being completed as well."
Traditional Owners, Aboriginal Community-Controlled Organisations, young people, and local business owners helped shape the new Statement. That keeps Aboriginal leadership and local decision-making at the centre of the Deal.
"The Finocchiaro CLP Government is committed to the Barkly Regional Deal. We've made good progress, but there is more work to do, and I'll keep working with Council, the Commonwealth and our communities to get it done," Minister Edgington said.
