Regional councils are playing a critical role in delivering sport and cultural programs under the Northern Territory’s Active Regional and Remote Communities Program (ARRCP), now backed by $4.4 million in the 2025–26 Budget.
The program funds sport, recreation and cultural activities in communities across the NT, aiming to support healthier lifestyles, boost local jobs and connect families.
In 2024–25, 13 regional and community councils received direct support to deliver programs tailored to local needs, including in the Tiwi Islands, Barkly and West Daly regions.
Programs are shaped through consultation, with councils and local providers submitting annual activity plans. A total of five full-time and 57 part-time staff are employed across the Territory to run the activities.
In the Tiwi Islands, more than 1,100 children and young people have already taken part in weekly sport and cultural sessions this year, coordinated by Tiwi organisation Jipungwayi in partnership with Touch Football NT, Hockey NT and Dream Impact Inspire.
“These activities are making a huge difference – it’s great to see so many young people taking part and older community members joining in too,” said Jipungwayi Director Michael Coombes.
“We’re proud to run programs that reflect our community and culture and support our people to stay active and strong.”
In the Barkly and West Daly regions, delivery partners include Basketball NT, Gymnastics NT, Royal Life Saving NT and Build Up Skateboarding.
The program is also reaching remote schools outside of council boundaries, such as Schools of the Air in Alice Springs and Katherine, and small schools in Dundee Beach, Woolaning and Yulara.
“Sport and cultural activities are powerful tools to bring people together and help communities thrive and when kids and families are supported to be active, they build confidence, connection and lifelong skills,” said Minister for People, Sport and Culture Jinson Charls.
“This program is restoring our lifestyle in the regions by backing local workers, boosting school engagement, and building stronger communities from the ground up.”
