Construction of a new $3.1 million youth centre in a remote Barkly community is set to begin after a Central Australian contractor was appointed to deliver the project.
Alice Springs-based MPH Projects has been selected to build the facility in Ali Curung, which is funded through the $100 million Barkly Regional Deal and will be delivered by the Barkly Regional Council.
The small community, 1100 km south of Darwin, has a population of 350 people, with 88 per cent identifying as Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander, according to the 2021 census.
Minister for Indigenous Australians, Malarndirri McCarthy, said the new facility would provide a dedicated space for young people in the community.
It will be a place for young people to enjoy sport and "recreation activities that support their health and wellbeing," Senator McCarthy said.
"This project has been shaped by community and will create a place where young people can build confidence and strengthen connections."
The new centre, expected to be completed later this year, will replace a corrugated iron building dating back to the 1950s and will include a multipurpose hall, kitchen, office space and amenities.
A grandstand overlooking the community football field is also planned, providing a gathering place for sporting events and community activities.
Independent Chair of the Barkly Regional Deal Governance, Table Barb Shaw, said the project demonstrated the value of collaboration between governments and Aboriginal communities across the region.
"The Ali Curung Youth Centre is the result of partners working together with the community to support their aspiration," Ms Shaw said.
"The Centre will no doubt become a major centrepoint for the benefit of young people and their families."
Lingiari MP Marion Scrymgour noted the project had been a long-standing priority for local residents and had been designed alongside the local community.
"This is an extremely important project for the Ali Curung community - one they have been waiting a long time for," Ms Scrymgour said.
"It will be a welcoming space that will offer a range of programs and activities to promote engaged and social behaviour as well as active lifestyles. Our remote communities deserve strong services and liveability, just like our urban areas, and this project will go a long way in achieving this."
The NT Minister for Housing, Local Government and Community Development, Steve Edgington, said the facility would strengthen opportunities for young people in the Barkly.
"The Ali Curung Youth Centre is an important commitment under the Barkly Regional Deal," he said, "delivering a much-needed space for young people to come together, participate in activities and strengthen community connections."
