The Approvals Fast-Track Taskforce has delivered its final report, and the Finocchiaro CLP Government will now progress work to remove red tape and streamline approvals for businesses across the Northern Territory.
Established in November 2024 by Chief Minister Lia Finocchiaro, the Taskforce brought together industry leaders from across the Territory to identify the regulatory hurdles faced by small businesses, including those in construction, retail, accommodation, agriculture and hospitality.
The final report, Saying 'Yes' to Business, outlines 22 recommendations to simplify approval processes and remove barriers that have been holding back investment. Developed in close consultation with business and key sectors, the report highlights the significant burden of red tape and calls for targeted reforms to deliver faster, more predictable outcomes.
Chief Minister Lia Finocchiaro said the government will now consider the recommendations as part of its broader economic reform agenda and commitment to a year of action, certainty and security.
"This is about backing business, removing red tape, and creating a Territory that says, 'yes' to investment opportunities," Mrs Finocchiaro said.
"With so many businesses facing different challenges, a one-size-fits-all regulatory model doesn't grow business, it blocks it. We want to encourage business to grow, not hold it back."
The 22 recommendations are built around six core themes: modernising compliance, limiting unnecessary regulatory touchpoints, enabling greater delegation, increasing certainty, driving system-wide improvements, and strengthening regulator stewardship.
The reforms provide clear direction for government, with immediate priorities to be delivered within 12 months, medium-term reforms over three years, and longer-term structural changes to modernise regulatory systems.
In addition to the Taskforce, the CLP Government has already appointed a Territory Coordinator to help unlock significant projects.
"These reforms will contribute to our target of making the Northern Territory the best place in Australia to do business," Mrs Finocchiaro said.
"Our government is rebuilding the economy and restoring confidence in the Territory's future."
The Chief Minister also thanked the Approvals Fast-Track Taskforce for their contribution, acknowledging the time and expertise they volunteered to help shape the Territory's future.
The government will now consider the final report and release its response in due course.
