Chief Minister on Howard Springs damages from domestic violence

The Chief Minister has conceded domestic violence incidents have caused damage at Howard Springs, with those responsible expected to face fines.

Chief Minister Natasha Fyles has conceded there has been more than just wear and tear at Howard Springs. Picture: Pema Tamang Pakhrin, Supplied

The Chief Minister has admitted domestic violence incidents have led to damage at Howard Springs.

It comes weeks after the CLP opposition’s claims of “complete chaos” at the facility, which has homed up to 700 flood evacuees since early March.

Natasha Fyles said her earlier comments that damages at the facility were just wear and tear was based on advice given at the time.

She said she was made aware of violent incidents and resulting damage after Infrastructure Minister Eva Lawler visited the facility on Friday.

“There has sadly been some domestic violence incidents that has been (sic) damaged,” she said.

Several windows have been smashed and boarded up at the Howard Springs facility after it housed flood evacuees from Kalkarindji, Pigeon Hole and Daguragu. Picture: Supplied

Several windows have been smashed and boarded up at the Howard Springs facility after it housed flood evacuees from Kalkarindji, Pigeon Hole and Daguragu. Picture: Supplied

“One incident was alcohol-related domestic violence, it’s alleged, it’s under investigation by police.

“There’s not millions of dollars worth of damage.

“But absolutely, there has been some incidents where there has been more than wear and tear.”

When asked if those found responsible would be fined, Ms Fyles said “yes, if someone has done criminal damage they will absolutely have to go through that process:.

“But the government is essentially the victim of crime there,” she said.

Ms Fyles said a full assessment would be undertaken once all evacuees had left the facility, which was expected to happen by Wednesday.

Deputy Opposition Leader Gerard Maley has said for several weeks the damages at Howard Springs were serious. Picture: Che Chorley

Deputy Opposition Leader Gerard Maley said Ms Fyles tried to cover up “another Labor debacle”.

“Again this proves that we have a chief minister more worried about managing the media than managing the Territory,” he said.

“She should come clean on the full cost and the extent of the damage and when she became aware of it.

“Claiming the government is a victim of crime shows a complete lack of respect for the taxpayer.

“It is taxpaying Territorians who will foot this repair bill, not Natasha Fyles.”

He said he was aware of damages to the septic system with rocks thrown into pipes, as well as broken air conditioners, furniture, fencing and windows.

A $98,500 tender was also awarded earlier this month for the supply and delivery of 265 new ‘four-star’ mattresses at the facility.

Ms Fyles said the Howard Springs facility was not ideal for families over extended periods of time.

“I think it comes back to the facility,” she said.

“It was built for single quarters, for FIFO-type workers.

“There was items moved around so that people could sleep together and be with younger children.”

Originally published as Chief Minister on Howard Springs damages from domestic violence