Local decision making is at the core of the Northern Territory Government’s Our Community. Our Future. Our Homes. $1.1 billion remote housing program.
Areyonga, 220 kilometres North West of Alice Springs, is one of the latest communities to hold a Housing Reference Group (HRG) meeting, so local residents can have their say on upcoming housing construction.
With a focus on easing overcrowding, along with providing homes for its ageing population, as well as those who are living with disabilities, the HRG discussed the homes which are most in need of work under the Room to Breathe Program.
Two homes have already received upgrades within the community with the second two homes nearing completion.
Both received an adaptable bathroom, with a disability ramp also installed at one of the homes.
Long term Areyonga resident and HRG member Kathleen Windy says the HRG meetings allow for certain housing requirements to be discussed and agreed to meet community needs.
“These meeting are good, I like the rules… I’ve been to all of them,” she said.
Involved community member Sarah Gallagher says the community appreciates the consultation.
She said she enjoys working with Department of Local Government, Housing and Community Development staff.
“They are really great people, they are building extra rooms because we’re living in overcrowded houses,” she said.
Tangentyere Construction is currently undertaking the Room to Breathe works in Areyonga, with some locals gaining employment.
“My cousin’s brother works with the builders."
“When we sit around he said, ‘you know Sarah I’m still learning, working with them on how to build the house.’ He’s really excited and happy, and enjoying it,” she said.
Sarah said her community is pleased with the works, local employment and local decision making which is taking place.
“The community is pretty happy. Some people go and look what is happening and think they are doing a good job.
We’re getting to make a good plan for our future and for our kids,” she said.
HRG member Sarah Gallagher says through local decision making she is helping to build a future for her children.