Working and Living Remotely in the Northern Territory

Outside of Darwin, the most populated towns are Palmerston, Alice Springs, Katherine, Nhulunbuy and Tennant Creek. There are added challenges and considerations when living and working remotely, especially in an unfamiliar environment to ensure your living and working conditions are appropriate and safe. Your workplace should have a separate travel policy for trips to and from your remote and rural locations.

Safety and Wellbeing in Rural and Remote locations

When you arrive at your accommodation, you should check and think about the following:

• Torch with extra batteries;
• Fire Extinguisher;
• Smoke alarm;
• Curtains and blinds are closed at night providing privacy;
• Secure locks on the windows, doors and gates; 
• Secure metal guards on the windows and doors;
• Second exit, such as the front or back door, in case of fire or intruder;
• Bedroom door able to be securely locked from inside the room;
• Outside light that delivers ample coverage;
• All lights in the accommodation are working;
• Facilities such as bathroom and kitchen are workable and in reasonable order including mattresses;
• Secure veranda and/or yard;
• Property does not have a rodent and pest problem such as rats and cockroaches;  
• Mould or other health hazard is present that cannot be easily cleaned and present due to the property being closed off for long periods of time;  
• Community map and relevant phone numbers available;
• Being aware of local environment, including any feral animals, road conditions and having sufficient supplies if required due to road blockages from inclement weather or other delays; 
• Have appropriate communication devices that operate when out of range like satellite phones and,
• You should consider insurance for personal items. 

Employer Accommodation

For most employees working and living in remote communities, your employer will provide accommodation as part of your remuneration package. Your accommodation maybe subsidised by your employer. Accommodation in remote communities is usually basic. It’s a good idea to clarify living arrangements with the employer prior to signing your workplace contract. See list above under Safety and Wellbeing in Rural and Remote Locations. 

If you have any questions regarding your rights as a tenant, contact the Tenancy Advice Service at the Darwin Community Legal Service on 1800 812 953. 

Importance of Cultural Training

It is important for employees to receive appropriate cultural awareness training from the Traditional Owners of the land in which they are expected to live and work on. NTWWC cannot advise you on appropriate behaviour as each remote community is different. 

However, some general rules are: 

• Female staff must dress modestly with their chest, shoulders and knees covered and wear loose fitting and clothing. 
• Be aware that certain Western cultural norms may be considered rude or inappropriate to an Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander community, and vice versa. For example, prolonged eye contact may be considered belligerent, rude or intimidating.
• Remember, that for many Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people in Remote Communities, English is not a first language and may even be the fourth or fifth language spoken. Direct questioning and speaking in a loud and abrupt manner may offend and present a barrier to communication.
• It is important to respect that men’s and women’s business is kept separate in First Nations culture. Adults seeking treatment should generally be seen by a member of staff of the same sex. Where this is not possible, permission should be sought before a member of the opposite sex gives or offers any investigation or treatment.
• Females should be mindful whether it is appropriate to be left alone with the opposite sex.

It is best to ensure that you learn as much about your environment as possible to ensure it is as comfortable and enjoyable as it can be.