5 February 2026
CLP cuts red tape to boost Territory business.Flexible multi‑year registrations better costs for agents.Higher association tiers ease compliance for community groups.
The Finocchiaro CLP Government's Year of Growth, Certainty and Security continues, with Minister for Trade, Business and Asian Relations Robyn Cahill driving reforms that make it easier for businesses and incorporated associations to thrive in the Northern Territory.
Minister Cahill said the omnibus legislation passed by Parliament today delivers sensible, risk‑based regulatory reform that reduces unnecessary burdens while maintaining accountability.
"It is important that we have the right regulatory environment for associations and businesses to thrive."
"We are applying a risk‑based approach to regulation, focusing on high‑risk activities and reducing requirements for low‑risk ones."
"This necessary and sensible regulatory reform is cutting red tape and helping our licensees and incorporated associations get on with the job."
"Over regulation is one of the greatest barriers to growth. By removing unnecessary administrative burdens, we are delivering on our vision of making the Territory the best place to do business."
The reforms will benefit real estate agent representatives, incorporated associations, and a range of occupational licensees, modernising outdated requirements and streamlining processes.
These reforms represent one of the most significant overhauls of occupational licensing and association regulation in the Territory. Real estate agents' representatives will save time and money with flexible 1, 3 and 5‑year registrations, including discounts of up to 10 percent, while maintaining continuity of service during renewals.
Incorporated associations - many of them small, volunteer‑run community groups - will see tier thresholds lifted six‑fold, reducing the need for costly professional audits and allowing more flexibility in financial reporting.
Modernised terminology and electronic communication provisions will streamline compliance across industries from real estate and plumbing to pawn broking, security, and tobacco retail, ensuring the Territory's regulatory framework is fit for the future.
The Department of Trade, Business and Asian Relations will notify associations and licensees once the amendments come into effect.
