5 August 2026
The Finocchiaro CLP Government is delivering a key reform to unlock the Northern Territory's economic future, modernising the Territory's gas market ahead of Beetaloo gas production capability.
This will see a restructure of the governance, administration and operation of its gas business, currently managed within the Power and Water Corporation, over the next 12 months.
This continues to remove barriers to investment, modernise critical infrastructure and lay the groundwork for sustained economic growth in the Territory
The Finocchiaro CLP Government is delivering a key reform to unlock the Northern Territory's economic future, modernising the Territory's gas market ahead of Beetaloo gas production and positioning the Territory to capitalise on billions of dollars in new investment.
Speaking on behalf of the Chief Minister, Treasurer Bill Yan today announced at the 2026 Developing Northern Australia Conference in Alice Springs that the CLP will restructure the governance, administration and operation of its gas business, currently managed within the Power and Water Corporation, over the next 12 months.
With first gas from the Beetaloo Sub-basin expected later this year, the Territory is entering a new chapter of economic growth. The reforms will ensure the Government's role in the gas market is modern, competitive and fit-for-purpose to support increased investment while protecting the Territory's long-term energy security.
The changes will support greater competition in the gas market, align the Territory with contemporary Australian gas market arrangements and National Gas Law, improve access to gas transportation services, and strengthen the pipeline network that will connect Territory gas with new domestic and export markets.
As part of the reforms, Territory Generation will take on an expanded role in securing the gas required to power the Territory, including responsibility for key gas supply agreements currently held by the Power and Water Corporation.
Minister Yan said the reforms were about ensuring the Territory was ready to seize the enormous opportunities now within reach.
"The Territory is on the cusp of a once-in-a-generation economic transformation, and we're making sure the foundations are in place to support it," Mr Yan said.
"As Beetaloo gas comes online, we need a gas market that encourages investment, promotes competition and gives industry confidence to grow while ensuring Territorians continue to enjoy reliable and secure energy."
Mr Yan said the reforms formed part of the Finocchiaro CLP Government's broader plan to rebuild the economy and unlock the Territory's full potential.
"These reforms aren't just about today's gas market - they're about preparing the Northern Territory for decades of economic growth."
"Projects like the Beetaloo Sub-basin, the 670km Territory Energy Link, the $1.6bn Arafura Nolans Project and the Northern Marine Complex will reshape our economy, create thousands of jobs and cement the Territory's reputation as Australia's engine room for energy, resources and defence.
"Our Government is making the decisions today that will deliver investment tomorrow. We're creating the right conditions for business, backing major projects and ensuring the Territory is ready to capture every opportunity that comes our way."
The restructuring will also improve access to gas transportation across the Territory's pipeline network, helping move Territory gas more efficiently while maintaining a strong focus on safeguarding local energy supplies for homes, businesses and industry.
The Finocchiaro CLP Government is delivering on its year of growth, certainty and security by removing barriers to investment, modernising critical infrastructure and laying the groundwork for sustained economic growth.
With major projects moving from planning to delivery, the Territory is better placed than ever to attract new investment, create secure local jobs and build a stronger, more prosperous future for all Territorians.
