Originally published in NT News on 15 February. 

Darwin Council reveals 2026 priorities from cyclone recovery to CBD parking changes

Ensuring Darwin remains liveable, connected, and resilient for generations to come means investing wisely, listening closely to our community, and being transparent about the choices we make, writes City of Darwin Lord Mayor Peter Styles.

With 2026 now in full swing, having already held our first Council meeting of 2026 and key celebrations such as Australia Day having taken place, it feels like as a city, we are starting to see what lies ahead for the year – it’s certainly shaping up to be one of both stability and progress for Darwin with important events, ongoing recovery work, and future planning.

The last week of January saw myself, alongside my fellow 12 Elected Members gather for our first Ordinary meeting, where it was clear we are all reinvigorated after the break to refocus on the things that matter most to everyday life in Darwin: safe and accessible streets, well-maintained parks and public spaces, support for local businesses, a welcoming and safe city centre, and improved parking - the foundations that make our city a place people enjoy living in, working in, and visiting.

In this first session of the year in Chambers, Council progressed a number of practical initiatives for the year ahead.

Councillors agreed to begin early budget discussions in March, including setting options for next year’s rates, requested a formal ‘lessons learned’ report on Cyclone Fina to strengthen preparedness and community communication and also asked for reports on potential support measures for CBD businesses impacted by major works, and options to introduce free parking in designated disability bays in the CBD from 1 July 2026 (subject to the 2026/27 budget).

Other key decisions that benefit the community included the endorsement of lighting upgrades at Kahlin Oval, approving overnight closure of a Karama walkway following community feedback and joining the Welcoming Cities network, strengthening our international ties.

We are thinking long-term, recognising that planning for a growing city in a changing climate requires careful, practical decisions that balance development with environmental responsibility.

Ensuring Darwin remains liveable, connected, and resilient for generations to come means investing wisely, listening closely to our community, and being transparent about the choices we make.

This month, we are busy planning for the 2026/27 financial year.

Our budget discussions are underway, and careful thought is being given to where funds can make the greatest impact.

But planning for the future doesn’t mean we lose sight of the now.

The Cyclone Fina recovery efforts continue, and despite the wet season weather making progress challenging, I’m pleased to say that work is steadily moving forward, and our teams are committed to restoring affected areas, clearing debris, and ensuring that our public spaces and infrastructure are safe and functional for everyone.

It is a reminder that the tropical paradise we live in doesn’t comes without its environmental challenges.

While we continue this recovery, we also look forward to events that bring our community together and celebrate the spirit of Darwin.

February marks the Bombing of Darwin Day commemorations, a significant day in our city, and Australia’s, history.

It is important to me that residents feel informed and engaged in the decisions that shape our city.

With that in mind, this column will become a monthly insight into council’s work, and I’ll share updates on decisions and outcomes from each Ordinary Council Meeting.

My hope is that by providing this regular update, everyone can have a clearer picture of what council is working on, why certain decisions are made, and how they will affect our daily lives.

This year, I encourage residents to stay engaged – attend events, support local, have your say on council decisions, and make the most of the incredible lifestyle Darwin offers.

While 2026 will bring its challenges, as any year does, it will also present countless opportunities to celebrate, connect, and continue building this great city.

By staying focused on both the immediate needs of our community and the long-term vision for Darwin, I am confident we can make this a year of progress.

As always, feel free to reach out to me directly via email, Lord.Mayor@darwin.nt.gov.au.

Lord Mayor Peter Styles.