The Finocchiaro CLP Government is taking the first step in a long-term commitment to promoting military tourism in the Northern Territory, reinforcing our status as Australia's first battlefield.
As part of a $3 million boost to military tourism, an updated Military Heritage Tourism Action Plan has been released, outlining key activities to develop and promote the Territory's military tourism sites and experiences.
The first stage of the Plan will see the roll out of new Military History Tourism Grant program, with a $1 million funding pool to help tourism operators develop new military heritage tourism products, expand existing offerings, and enhance visitor experiences.
Additionally, an audit of 30 key military heritage sites will be undertaken to assess signage, infrastructure, and digital presence requirements, ensuring these sites are accessible and engaging for visitors.
A cutting-edge AI trip planner is also in development, harnessing digital information about military heritage sites, experiences, and products to generate personalised itineraries tailored to user preferences.
This innovative tool will play a key role in marketing our military tourism assets, making them easily accessible to all visitors.
To further boost military tourism, a dedicated marketing campaign will be launched following the completion of selected heritage site improvements.
This will drive awareness and visitation to the NT's military history attractions.
A newly formed Military Heritage Tourism Advisory Committee will establish a 10-year strategic plan for military tourism in the Territory, shaping the future of this valuable component of our tourism offerings.
Minister for Tourism and Hospitality, Marie-Clare Boothby, highlighted the importance of these initiatives.
"We are establishing the Territory as a 'must-do' military tourism destination and making it a major drawcard," she said.
"More bombs were dropped in the Territory than Pearl Harbor including hundreds of kilometres from Darwin with historical sites right along the Stuart Highway.
"Labor couldn't see the Territory's potential as a military tourism destination. They turned a blind eye to the opportunities right on our doorstep and left our key sites to deteriorate.
"Now, we are restoring them because we want to tell the world: if you're looking for war history, you come to the Northern Territory.
"With our rich history and ongoing role in defence, we have a clear competitive edge. There is no better place in Australia to learn about military heritage than right here in the Territory."
Events such as the Bombing of Darwin commemoration and the Pitch Black biennial exercises have consistently attracted record crowds, demonstrating the strong interest in the NT's military history.
The Government's commitment to revitalising military tourism will ensure our community, and all businesses benefit from the restoration and promotion of our military tourism assets.
