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Over $10 million worth of upgrades to the Katherine Government Centre will deliver improved services, provide better access to clinics for the Katherine community, and create around 200 local jobs.
Katherine Government Centre is the hub for government services in the Big Rivers Region and the $10+ million refurbishment program will provide a new, more integrated service counter for the public, improved access to clinics, dedicated and separate entrances for clients to access more confidential and private services.
The centre is leased by the Northern Territory Government and the building owner is undertaking an extensive refurbishment and refit of the building from 1 March 2021 in return for a new 15-year lease.
The extensive works include a new service counter to be used by MVR, Housing and the Territory Business Centre, new facilities for Mental Health services, centralisation of Territory Families, Housing and Communities services, improved client engagement and office spaces for all eight agencies working in the centre and new conference and meeting facilities.
Katherine Government Centre forms part of the Indigenous Real Estate Investment Trust (I-REIT), a property investment fund whose investors comprise Indigenous Business Australia and 25 Indigenous investor groups.
Following a competitive tender, IBA Asset Management selected local Aboriginal construction company, On Country Construction, to undertake the estimated $10+ million refurbishment program.
Works start in March 2021 and are scheduled to be completed mid-2022. Works will be undertaken in stages to help minimise any disruption to services and inconvenience to the public.
During the refurbishment, Katherine MVR is temporarily relocating to 14 Katherine Terrace for approximately six months, and some health facilities will operate from Gorge Health Clinic on Second Street for around 12 months.
During construction, Community Corrections will relocate to the Randazzo Centre on Katherine Terrace, and the Territory Business Centre, NT Work Safe, Licencing, Director of Public Prosecutions and Police Prosecutions, currently in the Randazzo Centre, will relocate to the Katherine Government Centre.
All other services will continue to be delivered from the Katherine Government Centre during refurbishment but may be temporarily located in a different part of the building.
Signage will be provided to help guide and direct the public during the refurbishment program to minimise disruption and inconvenience.
The Minister for Corporate and Digital Development, Paul Kirby, said “Delivering quality government services to Katherine residents is our priority and these significant building upgrades will enhance our ability to better service the public.
“Katherine Government Centre is the hub for Katherine residents when dealing with government and these refurbishments will not only enhance the amenities for staff but improve service delivery and accessibility to medical clinics for residents.
“The refurbishment program will provide a contemporary workplace, significantly improving the way agencies operate and deliver services.
“The works will be staged to minimise any inconvenience to Katherine residents or disruption to service delivery.
“It’s great to see such a strong commitment and significant private investment into the town from Aboriginal investors into Indigenous owned and run businesses.”
Sean Armistead, Executive Director, Government & Public Relations, IBA, said, “IBA promotes self-management and economic independence through our investment work. Which means we want the best for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander organisations and businesses getting involved in commercial enterprises and investment opportunities.
“Whenever we can work with Indigenous businesses to deliver a project on a scale like this refurbishment, it’s a win for everyone – the local community, businesses, and stakeholders in the tenancy that will enjoy the update.
“The $10+ million refurbishment program will be completed using local trades, contractors and suppliers. On Country Construction is a joint venture between Ironbark Aboriginal Corporation and local construction company Jaytex Constructions.
“The upgraded facilities will lock in a lease agreement with the Northern Territory Government for 15 years which gives returns to the I-REIT and all its co-investors.”
Contact:
Tara Toohill, IBA, 0427 011 938
Lisa Sennett, NT Government, 0476 831 259
