Darwin Youth and Community Hub design revealed with operator sought later in the year

July 9, 2024

Designs have been released today for the highly anticipated youth centre in the heart of Darwin’s northern suburbs which will provide an array of programs, activities and support services for young people.

It will be operated by a non-government service provider with experience and expertise in working with young people. An open grant round seeking a provider to run the Youth and Community Hub will be advertised later this year.

Jointly funded by the Northern Territory and Australian Governments, the $9.5 million project Darwin Youth and Community Hub is set to open next year and is for young people aged between eight and 18 years - open after school hours and during school holidays.

The Youth and Community Hub will offer sports, arts, music and technology programs, life skills, self-care, and a kitchen where young people can learn to cook.

Located next to Casuarina Square Shopping Centre on the former fire station site, the Youth and Community Hub will be connected to public transport and will also offer safe transport home. Additionally, young people seeking support and counselling will have access to trained youth workers, mentors, and other services.

The Youth and Community Hub will help to create a safer community by keeping young people off the streets and engaged in a supervised environment. The design - which has been extensively consulted with stakeholders and community members - aligns with NT Government’s Community Safety Design Guide to minimise impact on the neighbourhood.

NT Minister for Youth, Seniors and Equality Ngaree Ah Kit noted “We have listened to young people, industry experts, and the community to design a place which will also give young people the opportunity to develop life skills and be mentored and supported by trusted adults.

“We look forward to delivering a diverse program of activities that we are confident will keep young people entertained and engaged, while supporting their wellbeing in a safe environment.”

Public information sessions were undertaken between November 2022 and February 2023 to inform design of the building and the program. Consultation identified five key principles that have guided the design of the Hub.

Upon completion, the Youth Hub will feature:

an indoor airconditioned activity space and a separate breakout music/media room
a learning kitchen where young people can learn to cook
a large, covered veranda area with fans and connection to outdoor spaces and raised food garden beds
a covered half sports court with a large fan complimented by green spaces
shower and laundry facilities
a dedicated staff area supported by dual use meeting room for counselling or wellbeing appointments.

Community information sessions to view concept images and discuss the programs and services that will be available through the new Youth and Community Hub will be held on Wednesday, 17th July and Saturday, 20th July at the Casuarina Library.

For more information and to register to attend a community information session

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