After years of inaction and excuses by the former Labor Government, the Finocchiaro CLP Government is progressing important urban secondary school reform.
In our year of action, certainty and security, we are putting Territory students and families first by replacing the outdated middle school model in Darwin, Palmerston and Alice Springs with a new, modern, and comprehensive system that supports real pathways to real jobs.
This major reform will ensure students have a seamless journey from Year 7 to Year 12, with stability, more opportunity, and more choice than ever before.
Minister for Education and Training Jo Hersey said this about giving every Territory student the opportunity to succeed, not just in school, but in life.
"Having been in power 19 of the past 23 years Labor delivered an urban middle and high school model they knew was letting down Territorians.
"We're creating real choices and real futures," said Minister Hersey.
"These changes will open doors for students to step straight from school into a trade, a job, or a university degree, right here in the Territory. It's also about giving young people the chance to explore their interests and making sure they have the support and resources to succeed."
Backed by evidence and shaped by feedback from educators, families and students, this transformation will better prepare our kids for life beyond the school gate, whether that's university, training, or a job in one of the Territory's fast-growing industries.
Key features of the plan include:
Darwin (from 2026):
Four comprehensive high schools (Years 7-12) at:DripstoneNightcliffSanderson (merged with a new specialist trade and technical college)Darwin Middle and High Schools (combined into one school)A new Industry, Trade and Technical College (Years 10-12), co-located at Sanderson, focused on high-priority sectors.A Higher Education-Focused College at Casuarina Senior College (Years 10-12), expanding pathways into professions like teaching and healthcare.
Palmerston (from 2026):
Two full high schools (Years 7-12) across the existing Palmerston College sites in Driver and Rosebery.
Alice Springs (from 2027):
One full high school (Years 7-12) at the Centralian Middle School site.A new Regional Industry, Trade and Flexible Education College (Years 10-12) at the current Centralian Senior College site.
This reform will be fully implemented across urban government schools by 2028, giving families certainty, empowering teachers with stronger career development opportunities, and ensuring every student can access a high-quality, future-focused education close to home.
"This phased approach ensures that students, families, and school staff have the time and support needed to move forward with confidence," Ms Hersey said.
"Growing our own in the Territory means building real pathways to meaningful employment and helping young people build strong, secure futures, right here at home."
Full implementation across all urban Government schools will be completed by 2028.
