Finocchiaro CLP Government delivering real-time support for Territory families during emergency response.
Building a strong, local workforce pipeline to support children, families, and communities.
Strengthening community safety and support when Territorians need it most.
The Finocchiaro CLP Government is strengthening support for Territory families during the current emergency response through a partnership between the Department of Children and Families (DCF) and Charles Darwin University (CDU).
As part of the DCF Welfare Group response that has seen residents evacuated from Daly River accommodated at the Batchelor evacuation centres, students from CDU's Bachelor of Social Work and Bachelor of Humanitarian Aid and Development are undertaking their clinical placements at the evacuation centre, contributing directly to the Welfare Group response.
Working under supervision, students are supporting centre operations, working with children and families, helping to create safe and supportive environments for evacuees.
In turn the placements provide students with hands-on experience in real-world settings, ensuring they graduate job-ready and able to support Territory communities.
Minister for Children and Families Robyn Cahill said, "we know the best workforce for the Territory is one trained here, gaining local knowledge and experience supporting our communities."
"These students are stepping up during a challenging time, gaining real-world experience while making a genuine difference to children and families."
Acting Vice-Chancellor and President, Prof. Fiona Coulson said, "Connecting students with our surrounding communities means they finish their studies with lived experience of working in the Northern Territory and an understanding of how their skillsets can shape lives."
The partnership strengthens the Territory's emergency response by increasing capacity on the ground and ensuring families receive consistent, culturally appropriate support. Students are supported by onsite supervisors and CDU placement coordinators, with structured learning and wellbeing supports in place.
Building on DCF's longstanding partnership with CDU the partnership supports the Territory's focus on growth, certainty, and security by strengthening the local workforce pipeline and supporting communities when it matters most.
