About Us

The Northern Territory Council of Social Service (NTCOSS) is the peak body for the Northern Territory’s (NT) vibrant and diverse not-for-profit social and community services sector.

The community services sector is one of the NT’s largest and fastest-growing employers, contributing more than $3 billion to the economy and employing over 13,000 people — most of whom are women. It plays a central role in supporting wellbeing, economic participation and community development throughout the NT, delivering essential services in urban, regional and remote communities.

Our team is based across Darwin, Alice Springs and Katherine. For almost 50 years, NTCOSS has worked with our members, government and the broader community to improve outcomes for Territorians.

Our mission is to promote social justice and reduce poverty and disadvantage in the NT. We are guided by the values of equity, inclusion and self-determination.

Our work spans policy, advocacy, sector stewardship and sector support — shaping fair and effective public policy; amplifying the voices of those experiencing disadvantage; strengthening workforce capacity and conditions; and building the capability of community organisations to deliver meaningful, place-based solutions.

We recognise the leadership and cultural authority of Aboriginal communities and organisations. We are committed to working in partnership with Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples to progress equity, self-determination and community control of programs and services. This includes a strong focus on supporting the National Agreement on Closing the Gap and ensuring policy and funding decisions enable Aboriginal-led organisations and solutions.

NTCOSS acknowledges the Traditional Owners of the lands on which we live and work. We pay our respects to the Larrakia people of Garramilla (Darwin), the Arrernte people of Mparntwe (Alice Springs), and the Jawoyn, Dagoman and Wardaman peoples of Katherine, upon whose lands
NTCOSS workplaces are located.

We extend our respect to Elders past, present and emerging across the Northern Territory and Australia. We honour their enduring connection to land, waters, culture and community, and we recognise that sovereignty has never been ceded.

Our Values

Social Justice

Integrity and Respect

Courageous Independence

Collaborative Leadership

Our Vision

A fair, inclusive and sustainable Northern Territory

Our Mission

To promote an awareness and understanding of social issues throughout the NT community and to strive towards the development of an equitable and just society.

Our Work

To have a positive impact on Territorians experiencing disadvantage, by working with others for strategic influence and with consideration of social, economic and environmental sustainability.

The COSS Network

The National network of Councils of Social Service in Australia collaborate to achieve our vision of a fair, inclusive and sustainable Australia. The COSS Network is committed to achieving the best outcomes for people affected by poverty, disadvantage and inequity.

Australia’s Councils of Social Service (COSS’s) are the peak councils of the community welfare sector and the principal voice for people affected by poverty and disadvantage.

There are nine independent organisations, (one for each state and territory in Australia and a national body), which work together to reduce poverty and promote social justice.

Key Areas: the COSS network is active on many fronts in key areas of social and economic policy, including: social security and income support, community services, health, including mental health, housing and urban development, law and justice, rural and regional communities, Indigenous communities – rights and reconciliation, economic development and taxation, employment, education and training.