The Northern Territory Government has announced it will lead a high-powered industry delegation to the Indo-Pacific in March to strengthen defence partnerships and expand economic opportunities for the Top End.
The week-long strategic mission, to be led by DefenceNT, will deepen relationships with US defence and defence contractors while securing new opportunities for the Territory’s industry, said Chief Minister and Minister for DefenceNT, Lia Finocchiaro.
Mrs Finocchiaro reaffirmed the Government’s commitment to advancing defence-related economic growth and ensuring the Territory capitalised on its strategic importance.
“Defence is a pillar of our economy, contributing approximately 9% to our Gross State Product,” she said.
“Although I can’t attend this event in person, I have sent a video message reinforcing how important the Territory is for Defence, and I look forward to visiting later this year.
“Attracting new US-led investments is a key part of our plan to rebuild the economy. The Northern Territory is a critical partner in regional security, and we are determined to ensure our local industry is at the forefront of upcoming opportunities.”
The delegation will include representatives from:
- Darwin Major Business Group;
- Master Builders NT;
- Industry Capability Network NT;
- Local construction contractors.
As part of the trip, the delegation will present a workshop titled ‘Partnering for Strength: Expanding US Construction Capability with Australian Industry‘ in Honolulu, Hawaii, on 5 March.
Attended by senior executives from over 25 US defence contractors, the workshop will highlight the Northern Territory’s critical role in regional security and national defence, the Chief Minister said.
“It will also showcase the capability of our local construction sector to deliver the critical infrastructure needed for Australia’s and our allies’ defence objectives,” she said.
This delegation builds on last year’s engagement and seeks to position NT businesses for the substantial investments being delivered through the United States Force Posture Initiatives (USFPI) and the Pacific Deterrence Initiative (PDI).
Master Builders NT chief executive officer, Damien Moriarty said the delegation was a vital opportunity for the NT construction sector to showcase its expertise.
“This delegation places the Territory’s construction industry in front of the right people at the right time,” he said.
“Our industry is competitive and ready to deliver, and this workshop is our chance to prove it to key US defence decision-makers.”
Beyond securing new contracts, this visit will also promote NT Defence Week, which takes place in Darwin from 28 April – 2 May 2025.
This flagship event will attract leading US contractors, creating further engagement and business opportunities for NT industry.
