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$7.5m funding for youth homelessness hub in the Territory

February 23, 2026

The Northern Territory Government has launched the Maloerroe-ma Pathway Program, a new youth homelessness hub delivered in partnership with Larrakia Nation Aboriginal Corporation.

The $7.5 million investment over three years supports the establishment and ongoing operation of the facility located at the Malak Shopping Centre and Community Services Complex.

Operating from 5pm Wednesdays to 12 noon Mondays, the hub provides emergency accommodation, meals, clothing, hygiene facilities and pathways to health, education and vocational opportunities for young people aged 10–17 who are experiencing, or at risk of, homelessness.

This initiative is part of our year of growth, certainty and security, and directly addresses the Territory’s urgent need for targeted, culturally safe responses to youth homelessness.

Key points

  • $7.5m NT Government investment
  • Safe, culturally grounded support with meals, accommodation, health care and education pathways
  • Strong safeguards and early intervention to reduce risks of rough sleeping, exploitation and long-term homelessness

Minister for Children and Families, Robyn Cahill, said the program reflects the Government’s commitment to early intervention and meaningful partnerships with Aboriginal organisations.

“By providing a safe, welcoming place that connects young people with the right supports, we are strengthening outcomes for young Territorians and the wider community,” Minister Cahill said.

Deputy CEO of Larrakia Nation Aboriginal Corporation, Victor Williams, said the hub will make a real difference to the community.

“This hub brings together practical services in one place – meals, showers, case management and connections to health, education and housing,” Mr Williams said.

Early intervention

“It’s about early intervention, coordination and supporting young people at the right time. We welcome the Finocchiaro CLP Government’s investment and the partnership approach that allows this service to be locally led, culturally grounded and focused on real outcomes.”

By addressing key drivers of youth homelessness, the program aims to reduce the risk of rough sleeping, exploitation, justice system contact and long-term homelessness.

The program is part of the Northern Territory Homelessness Strategy 2025–2030, supporting early intervention, culturally safe service delivery and a stronger, more coordinated homelessness system.

  • Picture: Robyn Cahill, Minister for Children and Families, with Brian O’Gallagher MLA, Jarrod Stokes (left) and Victor Williams (right).
Peter Rowe

Peter Rowe leads First Nations News as Editor, with over three decades of experience across international newsrooms, digital platforms and media strategy roles. For the past 20 years, he’s worked in Australia – reporting, editing and advising on stories that shape public debate.