Millions spent on hardline school policies, but NT students not turning up (opens original article in a new tab)

NT government maintains strict truancy policies despite falling school attendance rates, with critics questioning their effectiveness and advocating for community-led solutions.

• NT government continues hardline truancy policies despite declining school attendance rates
• Aboriginal attendance rates fell to 57% in 2025, a 10-year low
• Education minister attributes poor attendance to natural disasters but decline spans over 10 years
• Truancy officers' temporary presence and threats of fines are criticized as ineffective
• Labor MP advocates for community-led solutions including bilingual programs
• Government claims evaluation of policies is ongoing but no evidence of effectiveness