The Northern Territory has implemented tough measures, including strict border control, to protect our remote communities from the spread of COVID-19.

As a further measure to prevent transmission of coronavirus to these vulnerable populations, the Territory Labor Government has unveiled a Remote Community Schools Package, to incentivise teachers and school staff not to leave their communities for the upcoming term break. 

The Remote Community Schools Package is available to all Northern Territory Public Sector employees employed in schools and who reside in the designated area outlined by the biosecurity measures in response to COVID-19.

Eligible employees will receive:

• A $500 retention payment for staff remaining in community for the period 9 April – 20 April 2020. This is in addition to any existing retention payments applicable within the relevant current Enterprise Agreement.
• Unused Fares Out of Isolated Localities (FOILS) retained for use before 30 June 2021
• An additional day of leave to conduct personal business for Classroom and Senior Teachers to use by the end of 2020
• Additional wellbeing support for staff, including three additional individual sessions and group sessions for all schools

Remote school staff who choose to travel outside of their community, will not be eligible for the Remote Community Schools Package and will need to self-quarantine at their own expense prior to returning to community and use their accrued leave or take leave without pay.

Quotes attributable to Minister for Education, Selena Uibo.

“The Territory Labor Government’s highest priority right now is to keep all Territorians safe.

“I appreciate that staying in community may be challenging, however, our teachers are seen as role models in communities and so I ask that all school staff please lead by example to help us protect the lives of our most vulnerable Territorians.

“We have implemented tough measures, including strict border control and enforced quarantine for interstate and international arrivals, to prevent the spread of coronavirus across the Territory but we need our remote community residents to help us in this effort.

“Our remote teachers are some of our most passionate educators, and we hope this incentive to stay in community throughout the holiday break goes some way to helping them through this unprecedented time.

“Through the Department of Education’s Logistics Team, we will ensure that supply chains and emergency needs are met for employees and their school communities while these travel restrictions are in place.”

Media contact: Kim Stephens 0417 683 144