NT government joins forces with DHA to redevelop ageing housing

A new project in Northern Territory’s Alawa is underway, with plants to redevelop ageing housing into new Defence and public housing sites.

The project will be developed by the Northern Territory government in conjunction with Defence Housing Australia (DHA) and is the first time the two have partnered together with the potential for future projects.

Northern Territory Housing Minister Matt Conlan said that the project will improve the quality of public housing.

“By partnering with an experienced developer in DHA, the government will gain the benefit of quality new public housing dwellings built cost-effectively,” he said.

“The redevelopment costs will be funded wholly by the DHA in return for the exchange of land.”

The trial site at 27-33 Young Crescent includes four vacant properties that are more than 30 years old.

DHA will seek approval to construct 11 townhouses. They are currently consulting with several stakeholders, including Darwin City Council.

DHA managing director Peter Howman said that they are extending their residential development industry expertise to housing Defence staff, but also to benefit other Darwin residents.

“DHA has always been a major part of the NT’s residential development sector,” he said, with more than 2,000 Defence members in DHA homes in the territory.

“We have led the way in designing climate-responsive housing for the residents of the Top End and this new initiative is another great way to show the community that we are committed to being a part of this city and to helping it thrive.”