13 November 2025 - meeting 17 - communique

The Northern Territory Disability Advisory Committee (the Committee) met on 13 November 2025.

The Committee met for the final time for 2025 with the Hon Jinson Charls MLA, Minister for Disability, to discuss matters of importance for people with disability in the Northern Territory as well as positive initiatives and outcomes occurring in the community.

Minister’s Update

The Minister welcomed several new members to the Committee and reaffirmed Disability Ministers’ continued commitment to work collaboratively to secure positive outcomes for people with disability as part of the national disability reforms underway. Feedback from the Committee, along with contributions from the broader disability sector, continues to play a crucial role in shaping this work.

The Minister advised the Committee that Disability Ministers endorsed the content of the first Disability Royal Commission progress report at the recent Disability Reform Ministerial Council meeting, and this would be released online shortly.

The Minister shared recent achievements highlighting positive progress in inclusion and disability support across the Northern Territory. These included the launch of the Territory’s first para sports unit, aimed at expanding participation and talent pathways. The Minister also acknowledged Briseis Brittain, a proud Ganalbingu and Ndjébbana woman from Arnhem Land who represented Australia at the 2025 World Para Athletics Championship, showcasing Territory talent on the international stage.

Further updates included the announcement of a new secondary special education school in Palmerston for secondary-aged students with disabilities. This is supported by a $110 million Northern Territory Government investment and scheduled for completion in 2029.

The Minister also noted the success of the 2025 NT Disability Inclusion Awards held at Parliament House, congratulating all winners and finalists for their contributions to inclusion and advocacy.

The Minister thanked the outgoing Chair of the Committee, Mr Callum Hooley for his knowledge, expertise and longstanding advocacy for inclusion and accessibility within the Northern Territory for people with disability.

Northern Territory Disability Strategy Action Plan 2025-2029

The Committee provided feedback on the draft actions proposed for the second Action Plan under the Northern Territory Disability Strategy 2022-2032 and discussed key areas of importance to the disability community. Members discussed the importance of ensuring the 4-year Action Plan promotes empowerment, autonomy, and supported decision-making for people with disability.

Transport Subsidy Scheme

Members received a briefing on the Transport Subsidy Scheme (TSS). Discussion covered the existing tariff structure for Multi-Purpose Taxis (MPTs) and the impact this has on the different passenger cohorts. Members welcomed the opportunity to consider and discuss initiatives that could improve accessibility and strengthen the overall effectiveness of the system with the aim of ensuring more equitable support for wheelchair passengers.

Northern Territory Government Websites

The Department of Corporate and Digital Development (DCDD) provided an overview of its role in managing Northern Territory Government websites with the aim of ensuring that websites are easy to navigate, access and read. DCDD outlined the work it is undertaking to gain a better understanding of user needs to design online content that supports clear communication and accessibility for all users.

Members provided thoughtful and constructive feedback during the discussion, which DCDD noted will be highly valuable in informing and refining future digital accessibility reforms.

Ms Sarah Skopellos
Chair
Northern Territory Disability Advisory Committee