Crucial community infrastructure projects are on their way for Central Australia, with the Australian and Northern Territory governments announcing the first nine projects under the region’s $50 million Community Infrastructure Package.

The two governments will partner with the Central Desert and MacDonnell regional councils and Central Australian communities to deliver the projects.

The nine projects were selected after consultation with the Central Australia Plan’s Aboriginal Leadership Group and local community and are part of the first tranche of projects, representing $5.2 million in investment.

The projects include:

• A playground upgrade in Atitjere
• A new playground in Engawala
• Oval lights (for the training field) in Laramba
• A new play system in Nturiya
• Change rooms in Pmara Jutunta
• Oval lights in Ti Tree
• A half basketball court in Wilora
• Oval lights in Kintore
• Oval lights in Titjikala

The Community Infrastructure Package is part of the Australian Government’s Better, Safer Future for Central Australia Plan, announced in February 2023.

The second tranche of projects is anticipated to be announced in May 2024, while the third tranche of projects will be selected in 2026.

Quotes attributable to Infrastructure, Transport, Regional Development and Local Government Minister Catherine King:

“The Australian Government is committed to enhancing the well-being and safety of Central Australian communities.

“I am pleased to be partnering with the Northern Territory Government and the Central Desert and MacDonnell regional councils to deliver the first tranche of projects under the Community Infrastructure Package.

“This package is the next step in improving the amenity and liveability of Central Australian communities, and providing an array of social and economic benefits to its local residents.”

Quotes attributable Indigenous Australians Minister Linda Burney:

“The Albanese Labor government is working in partnership with community leaders to implement the plan for A Better, Safer Future for Central Australia.

“Drawing on local advice and expertise these projects have been identified as priorities and will help improve local infrastructure across the region.”

Quotes attributable to Deputy Chief Minister and Member for Gwoja Chansey Paech:

“Local conversations are important and this investment is an example of what can be achieved when all levels of Government come together to listen to the needs of people in the bush.

“These new sport and recreation facilities will improve participation in healthy activities and offer a range of other lifestyle benefits.

“Residents of these remote communities will soon be able to play sport in the cool of the evening throughout the summer months, when daytime temperatures often soar into the high 40s.

“It’s great to see the Albanese Government continues to invest in the Northern Territory’s remote communities after years of neglect by the Morrison Government.”

Quotes attributable to Federal Member for Lingiari Marion Scrymgour:

“I am delighted that the Albanese Government is partnering with the Northern Territory Government to deliver on our commitment to support a better, safer future for Central Australia.

“I look forward to seeing the first tranche of projects up and running, where our local residents will benefit greatly.”