ALPA is proud to share that we have been awarded the Reconnection, Employment and Learning (REAL) Program contract for the Top End, running through to August 2030.

REAL supports First Nations people who are in their final 6 months of incarceration or on remand, helping them prepare for a strong start back in community.

Through a case‑management approach, we will work alongside participants to connect them with:

• Housing and accommodation
• Mental health and wellbeing services
• Learning and training pathways
• Employment and mentoring support

To deliver this work, ALPA will employ 16 new staff to form a dedicated team, the majority of whom will be First Nations people.

89% of the NT prison population are First Nations people and 66% are Yolŋu. This program is an important step toward ensuring people have better access to support, stronger community reconnection, and opportunities for the future.

Operating across the Top End, program service locations will be shaped by participant caseloads. To deliver this work, ALPA will be employing 16 new staff who will form a dedicated team.

“This program builds on the work ALPA is already doing through initiatives like Remote Australia Employment Services, Datjala Workers Camp Training and our work in community with Community Work Orders. It reflects our capacity to deliver meaningful employment, training and reintegration outcomes, while growing a skilled local workforce across the Top End" said Catherine Casey, ALPA General Manager Community Services.