Borroloola’s New Laundry: A Vital Step Towards Health Equity in Remote Northern Territory Communities
Overcrowding is a notable challenge in the Northern Territory, exceeding levels seen elsewhere in Australia. This density quickly compromises basic hygiene, disproportionately impacting Aboriginal children. Shockingly, eight in ten Aboriginal children are diagnosed with skin sores before their first birthday, increasing their vulnerability to serious, yet preventable, conditions like scabies and rheumatic heart disease. Now, a new community laundry in Borroloola offers a tangible solution, representing a crucial expansion of a program dedicated to improving health outcomes in remote NT communities.
!Image of the Borroloola Community Laundry – Supplied
Image: Supplied
Addressing a Critical Need: The Remote Laundries Program
Launched on November 25, 2025, the Borroloola laundry is a key component of the Aboriginal Investment Group (AIG)’s Remote Laundries program. This initiative is built on a powerful partnership between AIG and Kimberly-Clark’s International Family Care & Professional (KC IFP) division. the facility will provide free, accessible washing and drying services to the community.
“We understand the difficulties in accessing essential services in remote areas,” explains David Tyack,KC IFP Managing Director. “That’s why we’re also committed to donating a yearly supply of toilet paper to the people of Borroloola. We’re excited to build a long-term relationship with AIG and contribute to positive change.”
!Image of people using the laundry facilities – Supplied
Image: Supplied
More Then Just Clean Clothes: The Ripple Effect of Access
Elizabeth Morgan-Brett OLY,CEO of Remote Laundries,emphasizes the far-reaching benefits. “We’re incredibly proud to deliver a service that will positively impact the Borroloola community – not just in terms of health, but also economically and socially.”
Years of experience - six to be exact – have demonstrated a clear link between access to clean clothes and bedding and improved outcomes. Specifically, the program has seen:
* Improved Health: Reducing the spread of skin infections and related illnesses.
* Increased School Attendance: Children are more likely to attend school when they have clean uniforms.
* Enhanced Employment opportunities: Clean clothing is often a requirement for job interviews and employment.
“Our laundries deliver real health, social, and economic benefits for Aboriginal people in remote communities – one wash at a time,” Morgan-Brett states.
!Image of laundry equipment inside the facility – Supplied
Image: Supplied
A Proven Track Record: Impact and Expansion
Since 2019, the Remote laundries program has made a significant impact across the Northern Territory:
* Over 73,000 laundry cycles completed.
* 96% utilization rates,demonstrating a clear community need.
* 117 local jobs created, fostering economic empowerment.
The Borroloola laundry is strategically located near the coast, between Darwin and Alice springs. it’s the seventh facility delivered by AIG’s Remote Laundries program and is projected to support over 1,000 residents by completing more than 3,000 laundry cycles annually. This vital service is also supported by the Heart Foundation and the Mabunji Aboriginal Corporation.
**If you’re interested in learning more about the remote Laundries program and