Aged care an essential part of the Territory’s growth

Aged care belongs in the Territory’s economic conversation.

Saturday's NT News reporting on gaps in the Northern Territory’s aged-care system raises an important question: can people build a life here with confidence that appropriate care will be available as they grow older?

Older Territorians deserve safe, dignified care, close to their families and communities. Many have spent decades helping build the Territory we know today.

For the Darwin Major Business Group, aged care also has a direct connection to population retention, workforce participation and economic growth.

When suitable care is unavailable, the consequences reach across generations. Families may face difficult decisions about relocating. Working carers may need to reduce their hours or leave employment. People ready to leave hospital may remain there because appropriate support is unavailable.

These pressures affect households, employers and the wider community.

Growing the Territory means creating the conditions for people to stay through different stages of life. Housing, health services and aged care all contribute to that confidence.

The planned Palmerston aged-care facility is an important part of the response. We also need:

• A clear delivery timetable and practical support for people awaiting care now.
• Reliable home care and respite, alongside residential services.
• The workforce, training and accommodation needed to deliver that care across urban, regional and remote communities.
• The Commonwealth and Territory governments need to turn commitments into accessible services, with clear responsibilities and measurable progress.

A stronger Territory economy depends on communities where people can work, raise families and grow older with confidence.