5 July 2026
Seven projects dedicated to enhancing Territory military tourism will share in more than $270,000 through the NT Experience Fund.Projects include augmented reality, military history trails, interpretive displays, museum upgrades, and new visitor experiences.Part of the Territory's Visitor Economy Strategy 2032 to grow a $3 billion visitor economy.
The Finocchiaro CLP Government is putting military tourism on the map, investing more than $270,000 to enhance how the Territory's unique wartime history is experienced by visitors.
The funding, delivered through the NT Experience Fund, supports seven projects across the Territory that will strengthen military storytelling and create new, bookable tourism experiences.
The Top End was Australia's frontline during the Second World War, with more bombs dropped across the north than at Pearl Harbour. It is a story that sets the Territory apart - and one we are determined to tell the nation and the rest of the world.
Minister for Tourism and Hospitality Marie-Clare Boothby said the investment was about turning that history into a stronger tourism offering.
"We said we would put military tourism on the map, and that is exactly what we are doing," Minister Boothby said.
"Military tourism is about playing to our natural strengths. It is part of our story, part of our identity, and a key opportunity to grow visitation, particularly in our regions.
"We are backing local operators to turn these important stories into real visitor experiences, the kind you can see, feel and connect with right across the Territory.
"This is about building new reasons to visit, new things to do, and new ways for people to experience the Territory."
Among the seven projects funded through this round are:
An augmented reality experience at the Darwin Military Museum;Upgrades to Bombing of Darwin and Darwin Harbour interpretation at the RFDS Darwin Tourist Facility;A self-guided Military History Trail map with the Central Australian Aviation Museum;A self-guided augmented reality tour of the WWII Tunnels and Jervois Park precinct;New heritage displays and interpretive signage at Tuxworth Fullwood House in Tennant Creek;Enhancements to the 1934 Qantas Hangar and "Attack of the Trace" display; andA new workers memorial and audio storytelling at the WWII Oil Storage Tunnels
Dr Norman Cramp, Director of the Darwin Military Museum, welcomed the investment.
"The Territory's military history is unlike anywhere else, and it is exciting to see it recognised as a key part of the Territory's tourism offering," Dr Cramp said.
"With new technology and investment, we are creating more engaging and accessible ways for visitors to experience these stories."
The investment builds on the Government's broader military tourism push, including the Plot Your Course Through History campaign and AI-powered Military Trip Planner, which is helping visitors map out personalised military history itineraries across the Territory.
Minister Boothby said this work was a key part of delivering the Territory's Visitor Economy Strategy 2032.
"We are focused on growing a $3 billion visitor economy, and that means backing what makes the Territory different," she said.
"In our year of growth, certainty and security, we are continuing to invest in experiences that drive visitation, support local businesses and showcase the Territory to the world."
A full list of NT Experience Fund recipients can be found at www.tourismandeventsnt.com.au/tourism-industry/grant-funding/nt-experience-fund.
