Northern Territory’s 2010 Budget allocates $21.3m to deliver more than 10,000 Territorians improved and expanded transport services in the bush
April 21, 2010
The Northern Territory’s 2010 Budget has allocated $21.3 million to deliver more than 10,000 Territorians improved and expanded transport services in the bush.
Indigenous Development Minister Malarndirri McCarthy says the investment by the Henderson Government will transform remote and regional communities.
“Budget 2010 invests in ‘Working Future’ funding better services and supporting economic development for Indigenous Territorians,” McCarthy says.
“The Government is providing $3.1 million for passenger bus services to be trialled in more communities over the next two years that will build on existing services to remote communities.
“Getting to and from regional and remote areas is identified as a key issue for Territorians living in remote communities and we have been working with communities to expand transport services.
“Transport is also important for remote Territorians to have improved access to health, education and economic opportunities.
“These trials will help us determine future transport needs and how services can be improved.”
Transport Minister Gerry McCarthy says the Government will also invest $6.2 million over the next three years to improve freight handling at coastal barge landings across the Top End, including Nguiu, Gapuwiyak, Ramingining, Maningrida and Galiwinku.
“The upgrades will mean greater ability to load and unload freight during the day or night and better protection for the handling and storage of goods, especially during the wet season,” he says.
“This $6.2 million investment will deliver better job and health outcomes as well as cost savings over time.”
McCarthy adds that the Budget also delivers $7.5 million to upgrade airstrips at Yarralin, Canteen Creek and Utopia.
“Many of communities rely on aircraft for the delivery of supplies and to access essential services, whether they be island communities or communities isolated by large distances or wet weather,” he says.
“The Government is also providing an extra $4.5 million over five years to support shires to manage airstrips across the Territory.”