The Territory Labor Government is working closely with the Federal Government to ensure food security for all Territorians, particularly our remote and regional residents.
On Wednesday, Chief Minister Michael Gunner and Minister for Aboriginal Affairs, Selena Uibo, attended a roundtable discussion led by the Federal Minister for Indigenous Australians, Ken Wyatt, and representatives from the Arnhem Land Progress Association (ALPA), Islanders Board of Industry and Service (IBIS), Outback Stores, Coles, Woolworths and Metcash.
Groceries and food security is a priority area for the National Cabinet, comprised of the Prime Minister and all state and territory leaders.
The National Indigenous Australians Agency (NIAA) has also established a dedicated Food Security Working Group that is closely monitoring specific issues that are particular to regional and remote Australia.
Delivery of food and essential supplies is an exempt category from the travel restrictions to remote areas and so will continue as normal.
As stated by Minister for Aboriginal Affairs, Selena Uibo.
"Food security for all Territorians, but particularly our remote and regional residents, is an absolute priority for the Territory Labor Government.
"It is important during this uncertain time that we sustain groceries and essential supplies, particularly in the bush, where we already face regular logistical challenges.
"Our government welcomes this roundtable meeting to ensure a nationally consistent approach, and we are also liaising closely with store managers and distribution networks throughout the Territory, who are working tirelessly to ensure our regional and remote communities have access to what they need.
"The Territory Labor Government has implemented tough measures, including strict border control and enforced quarantine of interstate and overseas arrivals, to stop the spread of coronavirus in the NT and to protect our vulnerable remote communities.
"Under the Commonwealth Biosecurity Act, the delivery of food and essentials is an exempt category from travel restrictions to the communities in designated areas.
"As Minister Wyatt has said, there is no need for people in remote communities to hoard supplies and we need the community's help to resist the panic buying we've seen in urban areas.
"The health advice to residents of our remote communities is clear: the safest place for you is at home, and while you are at home, we are working to ensure you continue to be able to access everything you need in your own community."
