Nineteen leading business, local government and community services organisations have joined forces, calling for the development of short stay accommodation in Katherine.

With extremely high levels of homelessness in Katherine (31 times the national average), a chronic shortage of social and affordable housing, high rates of house crowding, and no appropriate visitor accommodation, the joint statement is calling for immediate action.

NT Shelter Executive Officer Peter McMillan said it was rare for such a wide and prominent range of community, government and business leaders to come together with a clear call for what was needed, and sent a very powerful message to parties contesting the Election.

“We have a clear and consistent view on what is needed for Katherine. It makes good economic sense to provide safe and secure visitor accommodation for people coming to town. But most importantly, it is the decent thing to do.”

Download the media release here.