Evacuations Amidst Ex-Tropical Cyclone Narelle: A Crisis in Katherine

In March 2026, the Northern Territory faced severe weather conditions as ex-Tropical Cyclone Narelle prompted the evacuation of vulnerable residents from aged care facilities in Katherine. Evacuees from Rocky Ridge and Katherine Hostel were relocated to MacFarlane Primary School, where they were housed in an open-sided basketball court. Many residents, primarily First Nations individuals with cognitive impairments, spent the night in makeshift conditions, with rain blowing into the shelter. Nursing staff described the environment as "suboptimal," highlighting the distress caused by the inadequate facilities for frail residents.

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The Northern Territory government stated that the evacuation was conducted under emergency laws, emphasizing that shelter standards were the responsibility of the Territory. NT MLA Jo Hersey referred to the evacuees as "vulnerable residents," while the public guardian, Beth Walker, expressed concern over the conditions, stating that disaster planning must consider the needs of vulnerable populations. Critics, including Matthew Ryan of the Northern Land Council, condemned the government's handling of emergency responses, particularly for Aboriginal communities, calling for improved coordination and culturally appropriate facilities.

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The evacuation in Katherine was part of a larger pattern of flooding across the Northern Territory, exacerbated by a series of severe weather events. Communities along the Daly River and in Palumpa faced significant flooding, with many residents evacuated multiple times. The government has been criticized for inconsistent care and inadequate resources in evacuation centers, particularly for remote Aboriginal communities. Reports indicated that evacuees often lacked basic necessities, with some forced to self-evacuate without support.

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In response to the ongoing crisis, the Australian government announced the activation of the Australian Government Disaster Recovery Payment (AGDRP) for affected areas, including Katherine and surrounding regions. This payment provides financial assistance to those impacted by the floods. Minister for Emergency Management Kristy McBain acknowledged the challenges faced by communities, assuring them of continued support and assistance.

Disaster Recovery Aid Extended for More Flood Victims

While some evacuees reported receiving adequate support, others described feeling abandoned and inadequately cared for during the evacuation process. The Northern Territory government maintained that all decisions were guided by safety assessments, yet the experiences of residents varied significantly, raising concerns about the effectiveness of the emergency response.

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• “The environment, to put it politely, was suboptimal,” — Nursing Staff, Rocky Ridge Aged Care Facility

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• “Our old people deserve dignity, care and protection … They have already been through a lot. Right now they feel they have lost agency over their own lives.” — Dheran Young, Territory MLA for Daly

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• “This is our ancestors … punishing all of us for what’s happening all around the Northern Territory. The land clearances, the gas pipelines and the taking of water. It is all connected.” — Cilia Lake, Mangarayi Traditional Owner

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The situation in Katherine reflects broader systemic issues in disaster management, particularly for vulnerable populations, and highlights the urgent need for reforms to ensure adequate care and support during emergencies.

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