3 June 2026
The Northern Territory leads Australia for growth in construction work done in year-average terms, recording a 68.8% increase to reach $6.9 billion in the March 2026 quarter.
The exceptional result was heavily driven by a doubling in engineering work to $5.3 billion, fuelled by major job-creating gas and mining projects.
A strong 18.5% surge in the construction of new houses is helping Territorians put down roots, backed by a 27% increase in private sector non-residential building work.
The Finocchiaro CLP Government continues to rebuild the NT economy, with new data showing the Territory is leading the nation in the growth of construction work.
According to the latest figures for the March quarter of 2026 published by NT Treasury here, the value of construction work done in the Territory increased by 68.8% in year-average terms, reaching $6.9 billion.
The exceptional growth was heavily driven by a doubling of engineering work done, which reached $5.3 billion. This reflects a period of significant engineering construction activity, driven most recently by major investments like the Beetaloo Sub-basin gas project.
Chief Minister Lia Finocchiaro said the strong growth was a reflection of growing economic interest and activity in the NT.
"My government has the right investment settings to see dollars flow back into the Territory as we rebuild the economy and restore our lifestyle," she said.
"From new residential builds to significant gas and mining projects, this investment is delivering jobs, supporting local businesses, and growing prosperity for the Territory.
"This ensures the Northern Territory remains the most competitive place to live, work, visit, and invest."
Overall building work also saw strong gains, increasing by 9.0% to $1.5 billion. Significantly, residential building work increased by 8.2% to $499 million.
This was fuelled by an 18.5% jump in the construction of new houses and a 3.6% rise in new units and townhouses, expanding the supply of homes across the Territory.
Non-residential building work increased by 9.4% to $1 billion, underpinned by a 27% surge in private sector work, demonstrating a strong return of business confidence.
Treasurer, Minister for Housing Construction, and Minister for Logistics and Infrastructure, Bill Yan, said construction is the cornerstone of the NT economy.
"These strong figures across sectors shows our strategy for rebuilding the economy is working," he said.
"This increase in construction activity represents real jobs, stronger local contractors, and a clear sign that investor confidence is building in the NT economy.
"I am particularly encouraged to see the surge in the construction of new houses, because behind those statistics are Territorians putting roots down for a great life in the NT.
"This is great news as we countdown to the first Beetaloo gas flowing into the NT market, our internationally significant announcement of the $1.6 billion Arafura Rare Earths Nolans Project, and the Chief Minister advocating for a greater Defence presence."
Source: NT Treasury here
