The Finocchiaro CLP Government continues delivering a year of action, certainty and security, with continued investment in events to drive tourism and strengthen economies across the Northern Territory.
The Territory's events sector is going from strength to strength, with 14 events receiving support through Round 1 of the 2025-26 Event Funding Program (EFP).
Minister for Major Events and Tourism and Hospitality Marie-Clare Boothby said events played a key role in the CLP Government's ongoing commitment to rebuild the economy and restore our unique Territory lifestyle.
"Our government has delivered a huge first year of events, from the MXGP and international cricket to Red Centre festivals that broke records and filled hotels," said Ms Boothby.
"This new funding round ensures that momentum continues, backing iconic events alongside new opportunities that will keep visitors coming back to the Territory."
Administered by the Northern Territory Major Events Company, the EFP supports the NT's vibrant events sector, from community festivals and cultural celebrations to major sporting events.
Events receiving funding in Round 1 include:
Darwin Comedy Festival 2026NT Writers Festival 2026Darwin Fringe Festival 2026Hockey National U18 Men's and Women's Championships 2026Garrmalang Festival 2026Hottest Sevens in the World 2026Barunga Festival 2026-2028Cricket 365 - Top End T20 Series 2026-2028Thailand Grand Festival 2026Darwin Aboriginal Art Fair and Country to Couture 2026-2028Chariots of Thunder Sprintcar Series 2026-2028Finke Desert Race 2026Garma Festival 2026-2028Alice Springs Beanie Festival 2026-2028
"With the creation of Tourism and Events NT, we will soon have a single, powerful agency to market the Territory with greater impact, attract visitors year-round, and deliver stronger returns for local jobs and businesses - the EFP is part of that vision," said Ms Boothby.
"We're seeing real results in tourism, with record outcomes for the year ending June 2025 - the Territory is leading the nation in visitor numbers and expenditure, including a 19% increase in overnight trips and a 13% rise in visitor expenditure compared to the previous year."
NT Thai Association President Tou Ruchkaew said the celebration of the 10th Thailand Grand Festival in 2026 would continue to attract visitors from across Australia and Asia.
"With the new AirAsia and Qantas flights linking Darwin to Singapore, Denpasar and Kuala Lumpur, there's no excuse not to come and experience one of Darwin's most popular multicultural events," said Ms Ruchkaew.
"We're grateful for the Territory Government's continued support to bring people together through events."
Subscribe for EFP updates at Northern Territory Major Events Company here or email [[email protected]]
