THE HON WARREN SNOWDON MP
Minister for Indigenous Health
Federal Member for Lingiari
THE HON GERRY MCCARTHY MLA
Northern Territory Minister for Construction
Northern Territory Member for Barkly
1 March 2011
Minister for Indigenous Health and Member for Lingiari Warren Snowdon said work will soon start on a new purpose-built sobering up shelter in Tennant Creek to provide high-quality care and supervision for people who need somewhere to sober up.
Mr Snowdon said the Australian Government is funding the construction of the new $1.6 million shelter, with the Territory Government funding operational costs.
“This new facility features separate male and female dorm-style accommodation and toilets, a joint dining and kitchen area, more beds, staff facilities, landscaping, laundry, parking and replaces the current building on the same site which is old and no longer suitable.
“This facility is basic to breaking the cycle of alcohol dependency and ultimately saving lives and money in terms of cost to the health and justice system,” Mr Snowdon said.
Construction Minister Gerry McCarthy said Howard Springs-based company Quality Constructions and Maintenance would build the new facility and the Barkly Region Alcohol and Drug Abuse Advisory Group (BRADAAG) will oversee services in the new facility.
“BRADAAG plays a pivotal role in minimising harm caused by drug and alcohol abuse in the community and this service helps people with substance abuse beat their addiction and get their lives back on track,” Mr McCarthy said.
The shelter receives between 3000 and 4000 admissions each year and refers clients to alcohol and drug treatment services or to other social support.
The new shelter is set to open at the end of September 2011.
BRADAAG Chief Executive Officer Stewart Naylor said sobering up shelters help reduce violence, domestic violence and anti-social behaviour.
“BRADAAG is very excited to see that work is under way on the new facility,” Mr Naylor said.
“The new purpose-built facility will significantly improve care and supervision of Tennant Creek residents and visitors who are picked up by police or the community patrols.
“It will also be a more pleasant and safer environment for our staff and clients.”
For more information contact Mr Snowdon’s office (02) 6277 7820