1 December 2025
Families on the Tiwi Islands community of Wurrumiyanga hit by Cyclone Fina last month are being visited by dedicated Welfare Group staff and volunteers from Northern Territory Government departments and the Australian Red Cross today.
Department of Children and Families (DCF) Chief Executive Officer Brent Warren said teams have been working around the clock to prepare support for those families and households affected by Cyclone Fina.
The Welfare Group, the Northern Territory's welfare support arm during emergencies and natural disasters, brings together agencies across government and other non-government partners including the Australian Red Cross to provide a coordinated recovery response.
"Teams from our department, the Department of Housing, Local Government and Community Development and our Welfare partners Australian Red Cross are visiting eligible Wurrumiyanga households today for relief payments and support," Mr Warren said.
This support follows damage and repair assessments on the island with full restoration of power now complete and water supply restored to normal water pressure.
"The Welfare Group has been on the ground providing immediate relief payments, assessment of other eligible payments and to support community wellbeing."
Families who experienced power outages for more than 72 hours may be eligible for $250 Immediate Relief Payments, as well as other support to replace eligible household and personal items under the Northern Territory and Australian Government Disaster Relief Funding Arrangements.
Australian Red Cross Director for Northern Territory, William Daw said they're working alongside the Department of Children and Families to ensure people feel supported, heard and connected during recovery.
Today's outreach comes as Welfare Recovery Centres in Darwin, including daily operations at Marrara Indoor Stadium and pop-up centres across Casuarina, Coolalinga, Darwin CBD and Litchfield area continue until Wednesday 3 December.
"Each recovery centre plays a vital role in helping communities regain a sense of stability after the cyclone. Our teams are on the ground every day, offering a listening ear, practical guidance and emotional support to anyone who needs it. Whether people are coping with the stress of extended outages, damage to their homes, or simply need clear information, we're here to help them navigate what can be an overwhelming time," Mr Daw said.
To date, over 1,800 people from more than 900 households have been assisted through the Welfare Recovery Centres and 340 Immediate Relief Payments made to those without power for 72 hours or more. In addition, more than $10,000 in food vouchers have been provided to families in need through the support of Mission Australia and Multicultural Council of the NT.
