Chief Minister Lia Finocchiaro has today launched NT Defence Week to double down on the CLP Government's commitment to driving the defence industry in the Territory.
NT Defence Week will run from 28 April to 2 May with a focus on the theme: "Uplifting industry across the north to meet capability demands of the Australian Defence Force, allies, and partners."
Mrs Finocchiaro, who is also Minister for Defence NT, emphasised the importance of the event and the defence industry to the Territory.
"I am deeply committed to driving the development of Northern Australia by unlocking opportunities for defence, industry, and our communities," she said.
"The North has consistently proven its capacity to support major investments, infrastructure projects, and strategic initiatives, and the Defence Strategic Review further highlights the urgency of this work.
"Getting this right will deliver benefits to the nation. Collaboration and a shared vision are key to our success.
"NT Defence Week reflects the Northern Territory's dedication to building a robust and innovative Defence industry capable of meeting the needs of the ADF, our allies, and partners."
Mrs Finocchiaro launched the event at local business Shorebarge alongside the leaders of the Army's 1st Brigade, members of Defence NT, and representatives from industry peak bodies.
The Territory is at the forefront of implementing the National Defence Strategy, playing a critical role in initiatives such as the United States Force Posture Initiatives (USFPI).
From 2025, the Territory will also host an annual rotation of the Japanese Self Defense Force, alongside the Marine Rotational Force - Darwin and the ADF, further cementing its position as a strategic hub.
The Commonwealth Government's National Defence Strategy 2024 and Integrated Investment Program indicate that between $14 billion and $18 billion will be spent on northern bases over the next 10 years.
"It is vital the Territory sees as much of this as possible," said Mrs Finocchiaro.
Recent/current projects include over $1.5 billion for the RAAF Base Tindal redevelopment, $746 million for the USFPI Training Areas and Ranges Project, $600 million for the Larrakeyah Defence Precinct redevelopment, $389 million for USFPI Robertson Barracks Improvements, $160 million for the RAAF Base Darwin mid-term refresh, and $427 million for MQ-4C Triton facilities at RAAF Base Tindal.
Defence expenditure accounted for 9% of the Northern Territory's gross state product (GSP) in 2022-23, compared to 2.3% nationally.
This year's program will feature an expanded Northern Australia Defence Summit, spanning one and a half days, with keynote addresses and panel discussions involving ADF leaders, government officials, strategic analysts, and industry representatives.
Other highlights include the prestigious Defence Industry Awards and Gala Event, taking place on 29 April 2025 at the Darwin Convention Centre, where the Chief Minister will present awards celebrating excellence across large enterprises, small businesses, Indigenous enterprises, and the veteran community.
Nominations for the Awards are open from today.
Complementing this, the Veteran Community Awards will honour and recognise the contributions of the veteran community and their families.
Minister for Veterans, Jinson Charls, said it was important to recognise those who were part of, and support, our veteran community.
"The Veteran Community Awards recognise and celebrate businesses and individuals within our community who have made exceptional contributions," said Mr Charls.
"I encourage people to nominate a veteran - including current and ex-serving members of the Australian Defence Force - for one of the three dedicated awards."
Winners of the Veteran Community Awards will be announced, with categories including Veteran Employer of the Year, Veteran Employee of the Year, and Veteran Entrepreneur of the Year, highlighting excellence and dedication within the veteran community.
The event highlights the Northern Territory's growing capacity to meet the Defence capability demands of the ADF and its allies, while solidifying its role as a strategic hub in the Indo-Pacific.
For program details and further information, visit: here.
