New Advisory Group to Put Lived Experience at the Heart of Homelessness Reform
NT-Territorians with lived experience of homelessness will play a central role in shaping the future of homelessness services, following a $2.112 million investment by the Finocchiaro CLP Government.
The Government has appointed YWCA Australia to independently coordinate the new Lived Experience Advisory Group (LEAG), with Anglicare NT providing delivery support. Expressions of Interest are now open for people who have experienced homelessness or housing insecurity to join the advisory group.
The Northern Territory Government will invest $528,000 annually over four years through the Department of Children and Families as part of the Northern Territory Homelessness Strategy 2025–2030. Dedicated staff will be recruited to engage and support advisory group members.
The LEAG will represent communities across the Territory, including urban, regional and remote areas, with strong representation from Aboriginal Territorians and people from diverse backgrounds. Members will provide advice to help shape homelessness policy, planning, governance and service reform.
Minister for Children and Families Robyn Cahill said people with lived experience are best placed to guide improvements to the homelessness system.
“Nobody understands the homelessness system better than the people who have lived it. Their voices need to be at the table when we make decisions.”
She added that the Government had invested in independent coordination and support to ensure participants could share honest feedback in a safe and respectful environment.
YWCA Australia NT General Manager Rachael Uebergang said the advisory group would create an inclusive space where people could share their experiences and contribute to meaningful change.
“People with lived experience know what works, what barriers exist and what needs to change to improve the homelessness system across the Territory.”
Anglicare NT Chief Executive Officer Craig Kelly described the initiative as an important milestone for the sector.
“By listening to people with lived experience, we can help strengthen homelessness responses and improve pathways to stable housing and support for all Territorians.”
Expressions of Interest close on Friday, 21 August 2026. The homelessness sector is encouraged to support clients and individuals with lived experience to apply and contribute to improving housing outcomes across the Northern Territory.
To find out more or submit an Expression of Interest, visit ywca.org.au/support/leag
NT Government
