So far this week we have seen 135 Home Improvement Scheme vouchers begin to hit the Territory economy in just two days – with thousands more in the pipeline.

With a good spread of works, numerous trades, Territory jobs and local businesses are being supported.

A total of 19,584 Home Improvement Scheme applications have been received and these are assessed on a first-come, first-served basis. They will be approved in stages so that the works last for about a year.

Works range from a number of different trades, meaning a lot of Territory jobs and Territory businesses will be supported, including:

• Air conditioning installation
• Bathroom renovations
• Kitchen renovations
• Painting
• Joinery
• Plumbing
• Carports
• Concreting
• Roofing
• Electrical
• Windows and glazing
• Shade structures
• Fencing

Earlier this week the Territory Labor Government announced some regulations associated with the planning approval process have been temporarily suspended for works undertaken in association with the Jobs Rescue and Recovery Plan.

Regulations under these programs have been temporarily lifted removing the need to lodge an application under the Planning Act 1999 before seeking a building permit to start construction.

While building approvals may still be required, this temporary change may shave two to eight weeks of gaining a planning approval, as well as saving Territorians a minimum $181 on costs associate with lodging a planning application.

These measures get the Territory through the dry and the wet, and out the other side, when the Territory economy will be ready to bounce back. 

Quotes from Chief Minister, Michael Gunner:

“When you spend a dollar in the Territory, you save a Territory job.

“Our tradies now have a massive pipeline of work. But we want that work to last, so the benefits for the rest economy can last as well.

“My message to every tradie is buy big and buy local. Every tradie that gets a dollar from this needs to support as many local businesses as they can. That’s how we bounce back stronger than ever.

“Right now we need to stick together and do everything possible to protect jobs.”

Quotes from the Minister for Infrastructure, Planning and Logistics, Eva Lawler:

“The Territory Labor Government is focussed on saving jobs and supporting local businesses. 

“Numerous trades are being supported through the Home Improvement Scheme, including shade structures and car ports, examples of renovation projects which would usually need a planning approval, however due to our temporary changes are now exempt.

“This government is doing everything in its power to support jobs, local businesses and make sure the Territory bounces back.”