New model aimed at curbing NT’s Aboriginal incarceration rates

AN Alternatives to Prison model will be trialled in East Arnhem and Alice Springs as part of an $8.8 million investment aimed at reducing “staggering” rates of Aboriginal incarceration

Member for Nightcliff Natasha Fyles. Picture: Keri Megelus

AN Alternatives to Prison model will be trialled in East Arnhem and Alice Springs as part of an $8.8 million investment aimed at reducing “staggering” rates of Aboriginal incarceration.

The NT Government has announced that $5.5 million will be put towards the model over the next three years, with the remaining $3.3 million going towards supporting the Aboriginal Justice Unit in developing and monitoring the Territory’s first Aboriginal Justice Agreement.

“The rates of indigenous incarceration and recidivism in the NT are staggering and have to be addressed,” said Attorney-General Natasha Fyles.

“The project aims to reduce the rates of indigenous incarceration and recidivism by supporting at risk Aboriginal Territorians.”

Ms Fyles said the project would look at facilities that helped “clients” find jobs and housing, rather than incarcerating them.

“This is a residential based model that relies on the development of facilities to provide employment and training opportunities and deliver intense, targeted and tailored rehabilitation services for clients and their families,” she said.

“There is considerable work still needed – this $5.5 Million investment secures the trial with sites for the residential facilities in Alice Springs and East Arnhem Land currently being investigated.”