The Department of Industry, Tourism and Trade is seeking feedback on the draft Northern Territory (NT) Drone Industry Strategy which sets out a clear and coordinated strategic direction for the NT drone industry.

Background

In December 2020, the Northern Territory Government released the Territory Economic Reconstruction Commission (TERC) Final Report. The report identifies drones as one of the emerging digital technologies that will play a critical role in achieving the government’s vision of a $40 billion economy by 2030.

Demand for drones is set to rapidly increase as the technology becomes more advanced, accessible and cost effective. Increased uptake of drones has the potential to enhance productivity and safety across many of the Territory’s key sectors such as mining, agriculture, natural resource management and tourism.

A mature drone industry will result in increased productivity and economic participation across all sectors and presents significant opportunities, particularly for those in regional and remote regions of the Territory. The NT drone ecosystem is still in its infancy but with vast, open landscapes, extreme climatic conditions, proximity to growth markets and strong research capabilities, the Territory is well positioned to become a leader in the industry.

About the draft NT Drone Industry Strategy

The draft NT Drone Industry Strategy has been developed following extensive internal and external consultation and provides a whole-of-government and industry framework for the development of the drone industry across 4 focus areas:

1. Industry growth
2. Education, training and workforce development
3. Regulation and government settings
4. Community engagement and recreation

Providing feedback

To provide feedback:

• First, read the draft NT Drone Industry Strategy
• Then complete the below survey.
• Alternatively, you can email a written submission to drone.strategy@nt.gov.au or attach a submission at the end of the survey.

We urge stakeholders from the below groups to review the draft strategy and submit feedback by 5pm Sunday 14 April 2024.

• Industry and industry associations
• Government agencies
• Research and educational institutions
• Land councils
• Community members
• Other relevant stakeholders

What's next

The Territory Government will be engaging with stakeholders on the draft NT Drone Industry Strategy. Feedback received on the draft will be incorporated into the final strategy.

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