Maritime Industry Development Plan

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.

This discussion paper has been prepared to provide context and guide feedback from stakeholders, which will then be incorporated into the development of the Maritime Industry Development Plan (the Plan).

This discussion paper focuses on the following key aspects of the Northern Territory’s maritime industry:

• Service, supply and sustainment capability
• Maritime industry growth catalysts
• Port infrastructure and development, including for the cruise ship industry
• Maritime workforce development
• Maritime districts

The Plan will provide a whole-of-government and industry framework for the development of the maritime sector which will:

• Identify the NT’s comparative advantages and competitive position
• Articulate a shared vision for the Territory’s maritime sector
• Provide a framework for development of infrastructure, land, business capability and workforce
• Articulate the ecosystems and other sectors that will contribute to, or drive growth
• Consider the impact on the sector of automation and advanced technology
• Consider transportation aspects, including intermodal opportunities and dependencies
• Set stretch targets and milestones
• Provide options for funding and financing

Key pieces of work already identified as deliverables as part of the Plan, or as an action within it, include:

• Master plan for the Marine Industry Park
• Maritime infrastructure gap analysis
• Business capability gap analysis and development strategy
• Comprehensive workforce strategy
• Economic baseline analysis

The Northern Territory Government is interested in the view of industry and industry organisations, government agencies, educational institutions, Department of Defence (Defence) and Australian Border Force, port owners and managers, land councils, unions and other relevant stakeholders.

Survey submissions close 5pm, Friday 5 November 2021.