145 families helped through government early intervention program

The NT government’s Circuit Breaker Program has supported 145 Territory families doing it tough since launching last year.

Northern Territory Circuit Breaker program has helped 145 families since launching in December 2024

The NT government’s Circuit Breaker Program has supported 145 Territory families doing it tough since launching last year.

Program is a key part of the government’s intervention programs targeting youth engagement, family safety and community wellbeing.

Funding of $6.6 million a year in ongoing funding has been put on the table for the program now operating in Darwin, Alice Springs and Katherine.

Circuit Breaker works with local police, the Department of Education and Training, the Department of Health and non-government organisations to look at what’s going on for the child and family, including school attendance, unsafe home life and any medical and mental health concerns.

A staged rollout of Circuit Breaker is continuing across the Territory, with plans underway to establish the program in Tennant Creek and Nhulunbuy by the end of 2025.

Minister for Children and Families Robyn Cahill said in its first few months, 145 Circuit Breaker cases started, 91 Family Responsibility Agreements were established, and 28 young people were referred to a safe place when they couldn’t stay safely at home.

“The early success of the Circuit Breaker Program shows the importance of why our first Budget addresses the drivers of crime at their source, so our kids are supported, families are strong, and communities are safer,” said Ms Cahill.

“Through Family Responsibility Agreements, we are holding parents accountable and providing access to the support services they need.”