24 July 2025 - meeting 16 - communique

The Northern Territory Disability Advisory Committee (the Committee) met on 24 July 2025.

The Committee met for the second time this year with the Minister for Disability, the Hon Jinson Charls MLA, addressing key issues affecting people with disability in the Northern Territory.

Minister’s Update

The Minister for Disability was pleased to advise that since the last Committee meeting, the release of the Northern Territory Government’s formal response to the Disability Royal Commission took place on 3 April 2025. While significant progress has been made to strengthen the rights and protections of people with disability, efforts are ongoing to achieve full inclusion.

Work is underway in the Territory to implement the 45 recommendations specific to states and territories, as well as the 85 joint Commonwealth, state and territories recommendations. A dedicated Disability Reform Taskforce has been established to drive this important work and to ensure all NT Government agencies work together to fulfill the Northern Territory’s commitment to the Disability Royal Commission recommendations.

On the matter of Foundational Supports, planning is progressing in partnership with the Australian Government and other jurisdictions, with further clarity expected at the next Disability Reform Ministerial Council meeting later this year. A coordinated framework for delivering these supports in the Northern Territory is currently being developed, and further updates will be provided in the coming months.

The Minister reinforced the importance of community voices and welcomed continued feedback by the Committee to guide future improvements.

Northern Territory Disability Strategy Action Plan 2025-2029

The Office of Disability provided an update to the Committee advising the first Northern Territory Disability Strategy Action Plan ended on 30 June 2025. Development of the new 2025–2029 Action Plan is currently underway. Committee feedback will play a key role in shaping the new draft Action Plan. To ensure broader community input, a consultation draft will also be released for public feedback.

Transport Subsidy Scheme

The Department of Logistics and Infrastructure gave an overview of the Transport Subsidy Scheme (TSS), a vital program offered by the Northern Territory Government to support individuals who are unable to use public transport. The scheme subsidises up to 50% of taxi fares based on targeted individual needs. The TSS operates across city centres throughout the Northern Territory and further supports individuals who travel interstate.

The Northern Territory Government remains dedicated to delivering accessible, reliable, and safe transport options that meet the needs of the community, and with the advice from the Committee, will continue to improve transport accessibility for people with disability.

Employability Strategy

The Office of the Commissioner for Public Employment (OCPE) is leading a social shift across the Northern Territory Public Sector, focusing on building inclusive, supportive workplaces where people with disability feel empowered and valued. Rather than placing the onus on individuals, the emphasis is on preparing managers and workplaces to support diverse needs. OCPE continues to collaborate with key partners, including HPA, APM and Charles Darwin University, to develop targeted pathways into employment and build confidence among people with disability seeking employment.

OCPE is committed to removing barriers, strengthening workplace relationships, and creating inclusive employment opportunities across the Northern Territory Public Sector.

Disability Screening

A representative of the Department of Corrections provided an update to the Committee on the Northern Territory’s Youth Justice system, highlighting a strong commitment to trauma-informed, young person-centred care. Youth Justice services, delivered across Correctional facilities in Alice Springs and Darwin, prioritise early assessment, timely access to health and disability supports and individualised treatment planning. A clear focus remains on maintaining connections with family, community, and support services, both during detention and after release case management.

Ongoing collaboration with stakeholders, including health and disability sectors, ensures continuous improvement. The Department of Corrections is committed to seeking ongoing advice from the Committee on strengthening family connections and enhancing outcomes for young people in the justice system.

Mr Callum Hooley
Chair
Northern Territory Disability Advisory Committee