Children in remote NT communities could be playing on new playgrounds if a Labor Government is elected at the upcoming election, on May 18.
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Member for Lingiari, Warren Snowdon, was joined by the deputy Opposition leader, Tanya Plibersek, in Katherine yesterday to announce a series of funding commitments, including $5 million to transform the Katherine Aquatic Centre into a waterpark complete with a sandy lagoon.
The duo have committed $588,000 towards new playgrounds in remote communities in the Northern Territory.
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The playgrounds will be delivered by Children's Ground, a not-for-profit organisation working with First Nations children and families experiencing the greatest levels of disadvantage.
Mr Snowdon said Labor's funding will deliver safe outdoor playgrounds for children in seven remote communities in Alice Springs and Arnhem Land.
"These playgrounds will make it easier for children to play and learn on Country with their family, promoting connection to land, culture, and community," Mr Snowdon said.
"Labor's investment will also create jobs for local First Nations people during construction.
"The playgrounds will be designed and constructed in partnership with the local communities."
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The seven locations for the new playgrounds will be determined in consultation with stakeholders, if the party is elected.
While in Katherine, Ms Plibersek and Mr Snowdon visited Katherine High School and MacFarlane Primary School.
The leaders did the rounds of a couple of classrooms, chatting to staff and students from the high school's Clontarf and Stars programs.
Ms Plibersek also delivered an election promise of $18 000 to install a new sound system at MacFarlane Primary School.
"Playing outdoors is important for children's development - it develops motor skills and hand-eye coordination, promotes wellbeing, encourages resilience, self-confidence, creativity and problem solving.
"Labor's announcement will improve opportunities for children in some of Australia's most disadvantaged communities.
"All children should have the same chance to play and learn, no matter where they live," Ms Plibersek said.
