Maritime Industry Development Plan

The Department of Industry, Tourism and Trade is seeking feedback on the Draft Maritime Industry Development Plan, which sets out a clear and coordinated strategic blueprint for the Northern Territory maritime industry.

Background

The maritime sector is fundamental to the Northern Territory’s economy and society. It is a key enabler for a diverse range of industries including energy, Defence and border protection, agribusiness, recreational and commercial fishing, and tourism.

The requirement for a clear and coordinated strategic blueprint for the Northern Territory maritime industry has gained traction due to the emergence of a number of projects and market opportunities that will drive future growth. These include the planned Marine Industry Park and Darwin Ship Lift and growing demand for marine services from the oil and gas and defence industries.

In December 2020, the Northern Territory Government released the Territory Economic Reconstruction Commission (TERC) Final Report. The report identified that a step change in the level of sustained private investment would be required for the Northern Territory Government to achieve its ambitious goal of becoming a $40 billion economy by 2030.

The TERC report further identified the need for a clear strategy – co-designed by the Territory Government and industry, to support the holistic growth of the maritime industry.

The Draft Maritime Industry Development Plan

The draft Maritime Industry Development Plan (MIDP) has been developed following extensive internal and external consultation and provides a whole-of-government and industry framework for the development of the maritime sector.

This includes:

• Identifying the Territory’s comparative advantages and competitive position
• Articulating a shared vision for the Territory maritime sector
• Providing a framework for development of infrastructure, business capability and workforce
• Articulating the ecosystems and other sectors that will contribute to-or drive growth
• Considering transportation aspects, including intermodal opportunities and dependencies
• Establishing an economic baseline for the industry, as well as economic growth scenarios to 2030

Providing feedback

The Northern Territory Government is interested in feedback on the draft, from industry and industry associations, government agencies, educational institutions, Department of Defence and Australian Border Force, port owners and managers, land councils, unions, the broader community and other relevant stakeholders.

We urge all interested stakeholders to review the draft MIDP and then:

• Complete the survey by 1 November 2023.

Alternatively, you can attach a written submission at the end of the survey.

To discuss the draft MIDP directly, please contact the Department of Industry, Tourism and Trade's Industry Strategy team via industry.strategy@nt.gov.au

What's next

The Territory Government will be engaging with stakeholders on the draft MIDP. Feedback received on the draft will be incorporated into the final MIDP.