The Northern Territory Government has welcomed the dismissal of a court appeal by the Central Land Council that sought to overturn the water extraction licence for Fortune Agribusiness’ Singleton Farm project.
The Government said Fortune Agribusiness had shown great resilience and a consistent willingness to engage in good faith, despite facing multiple legal challenges, all of which have ultimately failed, with the original decision upheld.
Minister for Agriculture and Fisheries, Gerard Maley said the decision by the NT Court of Appeal provided long-awaited certainty for one of the Territory’s most significant horticulture developments.
“This is an important milestone for the Singleton Farm project, which aims to create more than 1,000 jobs and drive long-term economic growth in the Barkly,” said Mr Maley.
“Fortune Agribusiness has been transparent, cooperative and constructive throughout the entire process, and we welcome their ongoing commitment to investing in Northern Australia.”
Located around 120km south of Tennant Creek, the 3,500-hectare horticulture project is expected to contribute more than $200 million annually to the Territory economy once fully operational.
The Minister said water access will occur in carefully staged phases, with strict conditions to ensure sustainable use of the Western Davenport water resource.
“This is exactly the kind of private investment the Finocchiaro CLP Government is focused on enabling; responsible development that creates jobs, builds regional industries, and strengthens our food security,” said Mr Maley.
“We promised 2025 would be a year of action, certainty and security, and that’s exactly what we’re delivering. Whether it’s agriculture, resources or tourism, we are backing the industries that will rebuild the Territory economy.”
Minister for Water Resources, Joshua Burgoyne said the decision by the full bench of the Supreme Court was testament to the Territory’s robust regulatory regime.
“This decision has been interrogated through a merits review under the Water Act, a judicial review by Justice Barr in the Supreme Court and now the full bench, and it has been upheld at each and every point,” said Mr Burgoyne.
“We will continue to trust the experts who undertake years of research and groundwork so they can make these recommendations and support our economy to grow and community to thrive.”
