Joint media release - Keogh & Gosling - HOMELESS DARWIN VETERANS TO BENEFIT FROM NEW HOUSING CENTRE
Department of Veterans' Affairs
THE HON MATT KEOGH MP
MINISTER FOR VETERANS’ AFFAIRS
MINISTER FOR DEFENCE PERSONNEL
LUKE GOSLING OAM MP
SPECIAL ENVOY FOR DEFENCE, VETERANS’ AFFAIRS
AND NORTHERN AUSTRALIA
FEDERAL MEMBER FOR SOLOMON - DARWIN AND PALMERSTON
21 April 2026
HOMELESS DARWIN VETERANS TO BENEFIT FROM NEW HOUSING CENTRE
As a nation, we have a duty to ensure no veteran is left behind.
The Albanese Government is investing $3.245 million to deliver a purpose-built facility in Darwin for veterans and families of veterans, named the Scott Palmer Services Centre.
The grant has been awarded to The Salvation Army (Northern Territory) and is part of the Government’s commitment to act on veteran homelessness.
Homelessness rates in the Northern Territory are up to 12 times higher than the national average, and veterans are almost three times more likely to experience homelessness than the general population.
This initiative aligns with recommendations from the Royal Commission into Defence and Veteran Suicide, which highlighted homelessness as a major risk factor for poor mental health and suicidality, especially during the transition from military to civilian life.
The Centre will provide the transitional housing and tailored support services needed to help veterans rebuild their lives with dignity and stability.
The Centre will offer several self-contained transitional accommodation units and access to wraparound services including mental health and employment support through connections to veteran-specific programs such as Open Arms and the Darwin Veterans’ and Families’ Hub.
The Centre will be named in honour of Private Scott Travis Palmer, a Commando who tragically lost his life in Afghanistan in 2010 after completing three tours there as well as deployments to East Timor and Iraq.
Private Palmer was born and raised in the Northern Territory, and was known for his professionalism, courage, and deep commitment to his mates. His legacy lives on through this initiative, reflecting the values he embodied.
The Salvation Army (Northern Territory) is currently looking to secure a suitable property, and further timelines will be confirmed once a site is secured.
For more information on veteran homelessness support, visit DVA’s Homelessness Support page or contact Open Arms on 1800 011 046.
QUOTES ATTRIBUTABLE TO MINISTER FOR VETERANS’ AFFAIRS AND DEFENCE PERSONNEL MATT KEOGH:
“Veteran homelessness is an issue we cannot ignore, and one we are determined to address.
“The establishment of the Scott Palmer Services Centre will demonstrate the power of Government and community organisations working together to deliver real, on the ground support.
“This is about more than just putting a roof over someone’s head - it’s about dignity, stability and ensuring veterans have access to the services and supports they need to get back on their feet.”
QUOTES ATTRIBUTABLE TO SPECIAL ENVOY FOR VETERANS’ AFFAIRS AND MEMBER FOR SOLOMON LUKE GOSLING OAM:
“The Royal Commission into Defence and Veteran Suicide made it clear we need to do more, especially for veterans facing homelessness.
"The Albanese Government is acting on that here in the Territory, with support on the ground to make sure no one falls through the cracks.
"Named for Commando Scott Palmer, the only Territorian killed in Afghanistan, the Scott Palmer Centre will carry his legacy forward in a practical way - backing veterans and their families with real, wrap around support including mental health care and help into employment.
"I’ve got no doubt this centre will save lives, and I want to acknowledge Scott’s parents, Ray and Pam Palmer, whose strength and advocacy have helped make this possible.”
MEDIA CONTACTS:
DVA Media: [email protected]