Territorians and businesses right across the Northern Territory are set to benefit, as the Finocchiaro CLP Government passed long-overdue reforms to strengthen the tourism and events sector.
The legislation will see Tourism NT and the NT Major Events Corporation merge into a new authority: Tourism and Events NT. The changes will also see a skilled advisory board established with highly experienced leaders from across the visitor economy including national and international experience.
Minister for Tourism and Hospitality and Minister for Major Events, Hon Marie-Clare Boothby celebrated the changes as a pivotal moment for the sector, and as a crucial step forward in the Territory's "next decade of growth".
"2025 has seen a host of record-breaking, Territory-first events, showcasing the very best of the Territory - from footy and fishing to V8 supercars and visual arts," said Ms Boothby. "And for Territorians, events aren't just tourism activities; they're part of who we are. They bring families together, strengthen communities, and showcase the Territory spirit we're all proud of."
"By bringing together tourism and events under one brand, we're backing the industry with a clearer direction, we're cutting duplication, reducing red tape, and making it easier to tell one strong Territory story here and around the world."
"The fact is that the old way wasn't delivering. If we want to rebuild our economy and compete nationally, we can't keep doing things the same way and hoping for a different result."
"Once again, our Government is acting with the certainty and commonsense Territorians expect, delivering on our commitment to reduce crime, rebuild the economy, and restore our unique Territory lifestyle."
These changes come as Darwin prepares to welcome 3,600 visitors aboard the Discovery Princess cruise-liner in Darwin - another sign that the Territory is back on the map and growing in confidence. More visitors means more jobs, stronger small businesses, and is proof that we are building a better place to live, work and invest.
Earlier this month, Minister Boothby launched the Visitor Economy Strategy 2032, setting a bold goal to grow visitor spending to $2.2 billion and increase overnight trips to 1.5 million. Tourism and Events NT will be central to delivering that growth and ensuring the Territory's lifestyle remains one of our greatest economic strengths.
