Dialysis Patients Face Uncertainty as Darwin Shelter Closes
Remote Territorians receiving life-saving dialysis treatment in Darwin are facing an uncertain future as the city's largest short-stay accommodation facility prepares to shut its doors on October 11. The closure of YiSSA has raised serious concerns among health workers about patient safety, with some renal patients reportedly sleeping on the ground in overcrowded housing.
Charlie Yebarrarr Dhamarrandji and Evonne Mitja Wunungmurra, both from Galiwin'ku in Arnhem Land, have relied on YiSSA for nearly three years while undergoing dialysis three times a week. They described the facility as a godsend, providing not only shelter but also transport to medical appointments and cultural support.
“We feel safe here,” Ms Wunungmurra said. “Where can we go next?”
Why is YiSSA closing?
The Northern Territory government recently rejected a $3.5 million shared-purchase offer from the federal government that would have kept the facility operational. NT Children and Families Minister Robyn Cahill has announced a plan to relocate remaining residents to Batchelor, a town approximately 100 kilometres from Darwin.
However, Ms Cahill clarified that renal patients were not among those being moved to Batchelor, stating YiSSA was never intended for medically vulnerable people. NT Health has said it is helping patients find alternative accommodation close to their treatment services.
Health workers raise alarm over patient safety
Chloe Hill, a support worker with Panuku in Darwin (part of the Indigenous-led Purple House health service), said the rapid closure was causing confusion and placing immense pressure on staff and support services. She reported that some dialysis patients have already moved in with family members, often in overcrowded conditions.
“The renal patients are staying on the ground, they're sleeping on the ground, it's not safe,” Ms Hill said.
Ms Hill warned that some patients may end up long-grassing, a term used in the Northern Territory to describe people sleeping rough, which would make it difficult for renal services to reach them for treatment.
What services did YiSSA provide?
YiSSA has sheltered hundreds of families and individuals over the years, including homeless Territorians and women and children fleeing domestic violence. The facility connected residents with vital services and provided a culturally safe environment, with staff organising events for children and patients.
Ms Hill described the facility as central to all renal units in the area, with a strong security team that made patients feel safe and respected.
What happens next for dialysis patients?
Ms Wunungmurra and Mr Dhamarrandji have secured accommodation in Palmerston, but they remain concerned about other YiSSA residents with medical conditions who have not been as fortunate. Ms Hill said her concerns are heightened by the approaching wet season, which typically complicates logistics and access to services in the region.
NT Health's deputy chief executive of regional services, Fiona Renshaw, confirmed a cross-government taskforce is coordinating transition planning, with a focus on continuity of care for patients, including dialysis treatment. However, NT Health was unable to provide the number of YiSSA residents currently receiving dialysis.
Ms Hill said the sudden loss of such a vital service has left many in shock.
“We're not only concerned for our dialysis patients, but we're concerned for everyone that's staying here,” she said.
Frequently asked questions
When does YiSSA close?
YiSSA will close on October 11 this year. The Northern Territory government rejected a $3.5 million federal offer to keep the facility open.
Where will YiSSA residents be relocated?
The NT government plans to move remaining residents to Batchelor, about 100 kilometres from Darwin. However, renal patients are not part of that relocation plan, with NT Health assisting them to find alternative accommodation near treatment services.
What are the safety concerns for dialysis patients?
Health workers report that some patients have moved into overcrowded family homes and are sleeping on the ground, which is unsafe for people with renal conditions. There are also fears that some patients may end up sleeping rough, making it difficult to receive regular treatment.