A Practical Expression of Mercy in Borroloola Remote Laundry in Australia's Northern Territory

Sometimes, Mercy begins with meeting a practical need.

Mercy Works, the development organisation of the Sisters of Mercy in Australia and Papua New Guinea, has recently expanded its partnership with the Aboriginal Investment Group (AIG) to support the Borroloola Remote Laundry in Australia’s Northern Territory for the next 12 months.

As part of this growing partnership, Mercy Works Executive Director Sally Bradley RSM and Head of Programs Andrew Lowry travelled to Australia’s Northern Territory in June. Hosted by Aboriginal Investment Group CEO Elizabeth Morgan-Brett and Mabunji Aboriginal Resource Indigenous Corporation CEO Robert Wendl, they visited the remote community of Borroloola to learn more about the Remote Laundry and meet the local community members who operate it.

The Borroloola Remote Laundry opened in November 2025 and provides community members with free access to laundry facilities. While this may seem like a simple service, regular washing and hot drying of clothes, bedding and towels play an important role in reducing the spread of scabies mites and other bacteria that can contribute to serious health conditions, including kidney disease and rheumatic heart disease.

In remote communities where overcrowding is common, access to reliable laundry facilities is a practical way of improving health, supporting dignity and creating better opportunities for families.

One of the highlights of the visit was spending time with Bernice and Jaida, Borroloola community members who operate the laundry.

“Andrew and I received a very warm welcome from Bernice and Jaida,” said Sally Bradley.

“It was inspiring to hear them speak with such pride about their work and the positive impact they are seeing for local families and the wider community.”

The Remote Laundries program is an example of how practical, community-led solutions can make a meaningful difference. By responding to needs identified by local communities, the program helps improve health outcomes while promoting dignity and wellbeing.

This partnership reflects Mercy Works’ commitment to walking alongside communities as they develop locally led solutions that improve health, wellbeing and opportunity.

“Access to clean clothes and bedding is something many of us take for granted, but it can have a profound impact on health and quality of life. We are proud to support this important initiative and to work alongside partners and communities who are creating positive change.”

The visit also strengthened Mercy Works’ relationship with the Aboriginal Investment Group, whose Remote Laundries program has become a leading example of community-led innovation by Australia’s First Nations peoples. The laundries create local employment while delivering practical health benefits, with a long-term vision of transitioning ownership to each of the local Aboriginal communities.

Reflection

Reflecting on the visit, Sally was reminded of Catherine McAuley’s words:

“We should be shining lamps giving light to all around us.”

For Sally, those words came to life in the generosity of Bernice and Jaida’s welcome, the pride they took in their work, and the partnership that is helping create healthier futures for the Borroloola community.

ENDS