The CLP Government continuing to advocate for greater federal investment in Northern Australia.
The Northern Territory plays a critical strategic role in Australia's defence, with Darwin positioned as a key Indo-Pacific hub and Defence contributing nearly 10% to the Territory economy.
The Government is strengthening the Territory's defence capability through initiatives like the Defence Industry Council and Northern Marine Complex.
The Finocchiaro CLP Government is continuing to advocate for stronger national security through greater investment in Northern Australia, following yesterday's announcement by Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for Defence Richard Marles.
Chief Minister Lia Finocchiaro said the announcement reinforces the critical role the Northern Territory plays in Australia's defence posture and the need for sustained federal investment in the region.
While in Canberra earlier this year, the Chief Minister met with the Deputy Prime Minister to advocate for increased funding and resources to strengthen Defence capability in the Territory.
"Darwin is a garrison city and is strategically located to provide unparalleled access into the Indo-Pacific," Mrs Finocchiaro said.
"Defence accounts for nearly 10 per cent of the Territory's Gross State Product and continues to deliver strong outcomes for local industry, with high levels of local contractor participation driven by the advocacy of the Territory Government and industry partners."
Chief Minister Lia Finocchiaro said the CLP Government is taking proactive steps to further strengthen the Territory's defence industry.
"We have established a Defence Industry Council to sharpen our advocacy to the Federal Government, with a comprehensive strategy to be released at Defence Week later this month."
"In January this year, I also announced the Northern Marine Complex, a sophisticated marine hub capable of servicing Australian Defence Force and allied vessels, further cementing the Territory's role as a critical logistics and sustainment base."
"We welcome the announcement and look forward to understanding what it means specifically for the Northern Territory."
"I look forward to continuing to work with Deputy Prime Minister Marles and the Federal Government as we advance the national interest. A secure north means a stronger Australia, and the Territory stands ready to deliver."
"I also look forward to travelling to the United States later this year to further strengthen our partnership with the Marine Rotational Force-Darwin and our key allies."
