A $4 billion remote housing initiative is being created to transform NT Indigenous communities.

The federal and Northern Territory governments, in partnership with the NT's Aboriginal land councils and Aboriginal Housing NT, have revealed a $4 billion commitment to significantly improve remote housing across the Northern Territory. 

The ambitious 10-year plan aims to construct up to 270 new homes annually, targeting a total of 2,700 homes to address the critical housing shortage in Indigenous communities.

Prime Minister Anthony Albanese says housing is central to achieving broader social and educational goals.

“It's hard to see yourself having a greater opportunity in life if you do not have that security of a roof over your head,” he said.

The initiative is not just about buildings; it is seen as a critical step towards closing the substantial gap in living standards.

Skye Thompson, Chief Executive of Aboriginal Housing NT, has lauded the deal as an “investment in people”, unprecedented in scale. 

With over 10,000 residents expected to benefit, the project promises to make a profound impact on the communities' quality of life and well-being.

The agreement also introduces a $120 million investment over three years dedicated to improving housing and infrastructure in the NT's remote homelands, areas previously overlooked due to their location on Aboriginal land or within national parks. 

NT Remote Housing and Homelands Minister Selena Uibo says it is a “phenomenal” level of investment, and should bring widespread benefits across the territory's extensive network of Aboriginal communities and homelands.

While the announcement has been met with support, it has also sparked conversations about the sustainability and suitability of the housing solutions proposed, particularly the preference for pre-fabricated homes. 

Jocelyn Cull, President of St Vincent De Paul Society NT, has welcomed the funding but called for greater clarity on implementation strategies to ensure the initiative's success.