The Finocchiaro CLP Government is driving agricultural growth and job creation, as Duxton Farms Limited secures a lease agreement to further progress the Wildman Agricultural Development Hub.
The hub, which spans 28,000 hectares and will accommodate a variety of agricultural activities, including horticulture, livestock, broadacre cropping, and forestry, is a key development site located 135km east of Darwin.
Minister for Agriculture and Fisheries Gerard Maley said the development marked a significant step in expanding and diversifying the Territory's agricultural sector, creating new job opportunities and attracting investment.
"This acquisition by Duxton Farms is an exciting development for the Territory's agricultural future," said Mr Maley.
"The expansion of the Wildman Agricultural Development Hub will contribute significantly to regional economies, providing vital job opportunities for Territorians while supporting sustainable agricultural practices."
The development has the potential to boost production of crops, including high yield such as mangoes and melons, broadacre crops alongside cattle production, which will be key for the local economy.
"Our government is committed to expanding the agricultural sector, creating jobs, and providing opportunities for Territorians. We've worked closely with Duxton Farms and the Northern Territory Land Corporation to ensure this project aligns with the Territory's strategic development goals," said Mr Maley.
The lease agreement builds on Duxton Farms' earlier acquisition of 2,386 hectares of the hub in mid-2024.
The project is part of the Government's broader efforts to rebuild the Territory economy through diversification and investment in agriculture.
"The development of agricultural hubs like Wildman is vital to ensuring the Territory continues to grow, both economically and in terms of job creation," said Mr Maley.
"We are laying the groundwork for a sustainable and prosperous future by attracting major investment to the Territory."
The Government's facilitation of land assessments and regulatory processes has ensured that this project meets stringent environmental and development criteria, maintaining a balanced approach to agricultural development.
"By creating opportunities for new agricultural developments, we are driving sustainable growth in the Territory's agricultural and horticultural industries," said Mr Maley.
"We are committed to boosting the economy, and Duxton Farms has committed to investing a substantial amount of capital in the Northern Territory's agricultural economy over the next eight years, which is fantastic for the NT."
Duxton Farms Limited, Chairman of the Board, Ed Peter, was excited about the project's potential.
"I am delighted that Duxton Farms has been given the opportunity to develop the Wildman Agricultural Development Hub, and we look forward to working with the Corporation, the Government, and the fantastic people of the Northern Territory to build something truly special in the Top End," said Mr Peter.
"This is a very unique project that should create substantial long-term value."
The Wildman Agricultural Development Hub, along with other key projects such as the Larrimah Agricultural Development Hub and the extension of the Ord River Scheme, are central to the CLP Government's commitment to rebuilding the economy and creating jobs for Territorians.
