Commissioners seek urgent talks with NT Government over homeless shelter closure

Commissioners for racial discrimination, First People’s social justice, gender equality and the rights of people with disability and children have written to the Northern Territory Government expressing serious concerns about the closure of the YiSSA short-term accommodation facility in Darwin.  

The Commissioners hold serious concerns about the potential impact on residents in vulnerable situations, including Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people, people with disability, women and children escaping family violence, and children requiring access to education and support services. 

Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Social Justice Commissioner Katie Kiss said ‘Housing is the foundation of having a decent life. The right to adequate housing is essential for everyone to be safe and healthy, and to have freedom and dignity.  

‘When people do not have secure and adequate housing, it becomes a barrier to almost every part of life, from maintaining good health and staying connected to community, to accessing education and employment. We are concerned that this decision will leave people who are already facing hardship at greater risk of poor living conditions and further disadvantage.’ 

In their letter to Northern Territory Chief Minister Lia Finocchiaro, the Commissioners called for urgent discussions about the safeguards being put in place to ensure the Northern Territory Government meets its human rights obligations and responsibilities under Commonwealth anti-discrimination laws. 

The Commissioners raised concerns about reports regarding the readiness of the new accommodation site at Batchelor, which opened on 12 October 2026, and whether it is equipped to meet the needs of former YiSSA residents. 

They noted reports that some residents have chronic medical conditions such as renal dialysis, which could increase the risk of death without access to treatment. Concerns were also raised about access to food, disability supports, NDIS services, transport, and other essential services for residents relocating to the site. 

Race Discrimination Commissioner Giridharan Sivaraman said the issues raised required urgent attention. 

‘The reported lack of consultation and the potential impact on Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander residents, many of whom are already experiencing significant disadvantage, raises serious concerns. Governments must ensure decisions affecting vulnerable communities are made in a way that respects human rights and promotes equitable access to essential services.’ 

The Commissioners also expressed concern for women and children who had been accommodated at YiSSA due to family and domestic violence. 

Sex Discrimination Commissioner Anna Cody said any decision affecting women escaping violence must prioritise their safety. 

‘Women and children fleeing family and domestic violence must not be placed at increased risk as a result of accommodation or service changes. Their safety and wellbeing must remain paramount.’ 

Disability Discrimination Commissioner Rosemary Kayess highlighted concerns about accessibility and continuity of support for people with disability. 

‘People with disability must be able to access the services, healthcare, supports and community connections they need. Any relocation process must ensure those needs are met and that no one is left without appropriate support.’ 

The Commissioners also noted concerns about access to education and support services for children relocating from YiSSA. 

National Children’s Commissioner Deb Tsorbaris said children’s rights and best interests should be central to any decision affecting accommodation arrangements. 

‘All children have the right to access education, support and stability. It is essential that their needs are carefully considered throughout this transition.’ 

The Commissioners have requested an urgent meeting with the Chief Minister to discuss the actions being taken to address these concerns and protect the rights and wellbeing of affected residents. 

ENDS | Media contact: [email protected] or 0457 281 897