Industry News

The Finocchiaro CLP Government is supporting Timor-Leste’s efforts to deliver sustainable electricity to under-serviced regions through a new energy exchange internship program.

The Empowerment Through Energy Program will see four Timorese energy professionals undertake a three-month internship with the Northern Territory Department of Mining and Energy from September 2025.

Participants will receive tailored program of training, policy engagement and practical field experience in delivering solar-diesel hybrid and power systems, drawing on the NT’s expertise in servicing some of the most isolated communities in Australia.  

These learnings will help Timor-Leste’s achieve its goal of expanding clean, reliable and optimised electricity access, particularly in remote regions.

Minister for Trade, Business and Asian Relations, Robyn Cahill, said the initiative strengthens regional partners to builds long-term capability.

“This program enables Timorese professionals to gain real-world skills in delivering secure, reliable energy,” said Ms Cahill.

“It’s a powerful example of how regional cooperation delivers practical benefits. By sharing expertise and learning from each other, we’re building stronger energy security and economic opportunity across our region.”

Minister for Mining and Energy and Minister for Renewables, Gerard Maley, said as part of our year of action, certainty and security, we’re proud to share our experience delivering affordable, reliable electricity to remote communities.

“The NT is Australia’s gateway to South-East Asia and an emerging energy powerhouse. Affordable energy is critical to improving living standards and economic growth, and this partnership is a big step forward,” he said.

Electricidade de Timor-Leste (EDTL) President, Dr Paulo da Silva, said, “Having staff members participate in the program provides an opportunity for Timor-Leste officials to learn from the Northern Territory Government’s approaches to remote off-grid power solutions, including remote microgrids and stand-alone power systems.”

The program is supported by the Australian Government through the ASEAN-Australia Centre and Partnerships for Infrastructure, in collaboration with EDTL.

Australia’s Ambassador to Timor-Leste, Caitlin Wilson, said, “This new initiative by the Northern Territory Government, with support from the Australian Government, will support a capability building priority requested by Timor-Leste, and is another step towards ensuring that reliable and sustainable energy can be delivered across Timor-Leste."

After the internship, participants will receive ongoing mentorship from NT experts, with a reciprocal NT mission to Timor-Leste in 2026 to strengthen collaborations.

Source: Northern Territory Government Newsroom

The Finocchiaro CLP Government is continuing its year of action, certainty and security, with Minister for Trade, Business and Asian Relations Robyn Cahill set to lead a delegation to Timor-Leste to reaffirm and strengthen the Northern Territory’s close relationship with one of its nearest neighbours.

As part of the Rebuilding the Economy Strategy 2025 and the strategic priority to better connect the Territory, the visit will involve high-level engagements with senior government officials, local businesses, and industry leaders to advance bilateral relations under the Strategic Partnership Agreement (SPA).

The visit highlights the deepening economic, strategic, and cultural ties between the Northern Territory and Timor-Leste.

Minister Cahill said supporting initiatives under the SPA reflected our shared commitment to cooperation and exchange and builds on our growing bilateral relationship.

“Timor-Leste is one of the Northern Territory’s closest neighbours, and we are committed to working together on shared economic and development goals.”

“Our partnership highlights practical cooperation across a range of areas including energy, health, sport, the environment and workforce development.”

"Deepening our relationships across Asia is a key pillar of the CLP Government’s plan to rebuild the economy, driving growth, investment and opportunity in both the Territory and Timor-Leste.”

The delegation will work with Timorese regional wildlife management groups to support the strengthening of local crocodile management programs.

They will also collaborate with local energy professionals to help improve the delivery of reliable electricity to remote and under-serviced areas, while facilitating workforce development opportunities for Timorese officials.

This visit follows the signing of the Plan of Action on Healthcare Cooperation, which aims to provide training, skilling and collaboration opportunities across the healthcare sector.

Supporting these strategic collaborations also creates opportunities and new pathways for Territory businesses to engage with Timor-Leste as its economy continues to grow.

The visit coincides with the highly anticipated return of the Darwin to Dili Yacht Race in 2025, highlighting the enduring connections between our two regions.

The estimated total cost for the Minister and two advisors is approximately $10,000. Final costs will be reported following the trip, in line with standard reporting processes.

Sorce: Northern Territory Government Newsroom

The Finocchiaro CLP Government is making it clear: the development of northern Australia is a national priority, and the Northern Territory is ready to lead.

Deputy Chief Minister Gerard Maley is in Cairns for the Developing Northern Australia Conference, where he is highlighting the Territory’s vital role in delivering energy security, strengthening trade, and driving national resilience through gas, minerals, agriculture, defence and tourism - all key pillars of the Rebuilding the Economy Strategy 2025.

This year’s theme Securing Australia’s Future by Driving Northern Development speaks directly to the Territory’s leadership in driving strategic economic and population growth and unlocking projects of national importance.

“The development of northern Australia is not optional, it’s essential,” said Mr Maley.

Deputy Chief Minister Maley is among a host of keynote speakers, including:

• Dr Beth Cookson, Australia’s Chief Veterinary Officer, Department of Agriculture, Fisheries & Forestry;
• Professor Scott Bowman AO, Vice-Chancellor of Charles Darwin University and Chair of the Northern Australia Universities Alliance;
• Hon. Stephen Dawson MLC, WA Minister for Regional Development;
• Craig Doyle, CEO of the Northern Australia Infrastructure Facility (NAIF);
• Clare Gardiner-Barnes, Commissioner of Infrastructure Australia;
• Hon. Madeleine King MP, Minister for Resources and Northern Australia;
• Hon. Dale Last, Queensland Minister for Natural Resources, Manufacturing and Regional Development; and
• Senator Susan McDonald, Shadow Minister for Resources and Northern Australia.

Mr Maley said the Finocchiaro CLP Government’s Rebuilding the Economy Strategy outlines five key priorities to accelerate growth: make the Territory the best place to do business, build a bigger and better workforce, deliver for Australia, unlock regional growth, and connect the Territory.

“With Darwin closer to Jakarta and Singapore than to Sydney or Melbourne, the Northern Territory is Australia’s most direct gateway to Asia, a strategic position that makes us critical to strengthening trade, energy security and national defence.

“But we can’t do it alone, Northern Australia needs the investment, infrastructure and policy certainty to reach its full potential.”

“Our government continues to advocate strongly in Canberra for migration and taxation reforms, working alongside our counterparts in North Queensland and North West Australia.”

“We are proud to stand with Queensland and Western Australia to ensure the voice of the north is heard, loud and clear, in the national conversation.”

“From Beetaloo gas and Nolans rare earths to cattle exports across Asia and nation-building defence infrastructure, we’re unlocking strategic projects that deliver real outcomes for the Territory and for the country,” he said.

“We’re making the Territory the easiest place in Australia to do business by cutting red tape, fast-tracking approvals, and backing investment-ready projects through the Territory Coordinator and Approvals Fast Track Taskforce.”

“The message is clear: the Territory is open for business - and we’re pulling ahead.”

Source: Northern Territory Government Newsroom

The Finocchiaro CLP Government is moving to repeal or amend sections of Labor’s Electrical Safety Regulations 2024 that impose unnecessary red tape and cost burdens on Territory homeowners, landlords, and industry.

Part 8 of the Regulations, introduced by the former Labor Government, imposes new compliance requirements on people selling or renting their homes, including mandatory safety switch disclosures and rectification notices.

These provisions were scheduled to commence on 1 July 2026 and 1 July 2028 but were introduced without proper consultation. They have since drawn widespread concern from property managers, conveyancers, electricians, and everyday Territorians.

Attorney-General Marie-Clare Boothby said the CLP Government will not allow these impractical provisions to proceed in their current form.

“This is yet another example of Labor bringing in rules that sound good on paper but don’t make anyone safer in practice,” said Ms Boothby.

“These changes mean more cost, more red tape, and more hassle, with no clear safety benefit. It’s red tape for red tape’s sake.”

The CLP Government has received calls from Territorians to act now before it is due to commence next year. Concerns include added costs to sellers and renters, increased administrative burden, and potential pressure on the electrical industry.

“As Attorney-General, I have directed the department to commence work to ensure these provisions are addressed properly and Territorians have certainty moving forward,” said Ms Boothby.

“We promised Territorians a year of action, certainty and security, and let me be absolutely clear - the CLP Government will sort this out.”

The Government is now actively considering the most appropriate path forward, including:

• Repealing Part 8 entirely; or
• Delaying its application for as long as necessary to deliver a more practical, workable solution.

“Territorians deserve laws that genuinely protect them, not overreach that adds confusion, cost, and complexity,” said Ms Boothby.

“We were elected to reduce crime, rebuild the economy and restore our lifestyle. That includes standing up for common sense to provide certainty, cutting red tape, and backing homeowners and industry to get on with the job.”

Further updates will be provided following consultation.

Source: Northern Territory Government

The Finocchiaro CLP Government has launched the Territory Growth Initiative (TGI) — a new strategy to fast-track private investment and drive economic growth across the Northern Territory.

Minister for Trade, Business and Asian Relations Robyn Cahill said the TGI demonstrates the CLP’s commitment to rebuilding the economy as part of its year of action, certainty and security.

“The Territory Growth Initiative shows the Territory is open for business and the best place to invest,” Ms Cahill said.

“By partnering with industry and creating a more business-friendly environment, we’re unlocking private capital to deliver real economic benefits and create Territory jobs.”

TGI is already delivering — unlocking a $22.8 million tourism boost for Central Australia, backed by a $10 million concessional loan on commercial terms.

The Uluṟu-Kata Tjuṯa Signature Walk, set to launch in time for the 2026 walking season, will offer guests an unforgettable five days and four nights of outback indulgence along a 54km trail inside the World Heritage Listed Uluṟu-Kata Tjuṯa National Park.

In Darwin for the Northern Territory Investment Summit, Neil Lynch, Managing Director of Uluṟu-Kata Tjuṯa Signature Walk Pty Ltd said, "We always knew we wanted to deliver a one-of-a-kind overnight hiking experience in the red centre —a combination of premium infrastructure, a timeless landscape, and a 60,000-year-old culture —but bringing that vision to life requires significant upfront investment as well as government support.

“Being supported by the Northern Territory Government’s Territory Growth Initiative, and the first recipient of their Collaborative Investment Program loan, was extremely valuable and enabled us to unlock lasting benefits for global adventurers and for Traditional Owners, who gain a platform to share their culture and country with the world."

Under the Initiative, investment opportunities are assessed through rigorous due diligence with advice from an independent Investment Committee of industry experts.

TGI offers three pathways of investors:

• Collaborative Investment Program (CIP):
  • Loans up to $10 million to help Territory businesses become investment ready or attract new businesses in energy, defence, agriculture, mining and tourism.
• Territory Infrastructure Loans (TIL):
  • Delivered with the Northern Australia Infrastructure Facility, providing concessional loans for infrastructure development.
• Paspalis Co-Investment Fund (PCF):
  • Supporting NT-based companies to grow, expand and create jobs, with investments up to $5 million focused on defence, agriculture and technology.

These products will unlock new economic activity, strength supply chains and support a skilled local workforce.

To find out more about the Territory Growth Initiative visit https://australiasnorthernterritory.com.au/invest/assistance/here-to-help/territory-growth-initiative

Source: Northern Territory Government Newsroom

The Finocchiaro CLP Government today released the Approvals Fast Track Taskforce report along with the Government’s formal response to its final recommendations, delivering on a key election commitment to reduce red tape and make it easier to do business in the Northern Territory.

Chief Minister Lia Finocchiaro said the report, Saying Yes to Business, led by Chair Mark Garraway and a panel of industry leaders, identified 70 recommended actions to remove barriers for small businesses and drive economic growth across the Territory.

“The message is clear: the Territory is open for business. We are backing businesses to grow, invest and create jobs,” Mrs Finocchiaro said.

“Our government has fully accepted 60 of the Taskforce’s recommendations and accepted a further 10 in principle, in an aim to cut red tape and reduce approval delays by 50%.”

Two of the 70 recommended actions have already been delivered:

In addition, the CLP Government has committed to fast-tracking 48 of the 70 recommendations over the next 12 months as part of the first phase of implementation.

Examples of recommendations that are being fast-tracked:

“These reforms will streamline processes, improve certainty for investors, and help build a stronger, more diversified economy,” Mrs Finocchiaro said.

“As part of our year of action, certainty and security, we continue to be focused on rebuilding the economy and delivering on our promises to Territorians.”

Chair of the Approvals Fast Track Taskforce, Mark Garraway, said the release of the report marked an important step forward for the Northern Territory’s economy.

"The Territory Government has undertaken its critical first step in turning around the NTs economy. This is about creating certainty and confidence."

The taskforce adopted a measured approach to its reforms by using a risk-based model to lessen regulation burden on predominantly small and medium sized territory businesses.

Source: Northern Territory Government Newsroom

Highlights:

• The Shenandoah South 2H sidetrack (SS-2H ST1) well achieved a Beetaloo Basin record average 60-day initial production (IP60) flow rate of 6.8 million cubic feet per day (MMcf/d) over a 5,483-foot stimulated horizontal within the Mid Velkerri B Shale.
• The exit rate maintains a steady, low-declining curve at 6.4 MMcf/d with a flowing wellhead pressure of ~720 psi and has exhibited less decline than that of the SS-1H well over the last 30 days of testing.
• The average flow rate of 12.4 MMcf/d over a normalized 10,000-foot horizontal section remains inline with an average of more than 11,000 wells in the Marcellus Shale dry gas area with production for over a 12-month period.
• The result reinforces Tamboran’s view of commercial deliverability from the Beetaloo Basin to the Australian domestic East Coast gas market that typically sells at a premium to Henry Hub.
• Tamboran has commenced the three well 2025 Shenandoah South Pilot Project drilling program with the spudding of the Shenandoah South 4H (SS-4H) well. The wells are being drilled with the Helmerich & Payne (NYSE: HP) super-spec FlexRig® Flex 3 Rig from the SS2 pad in EP 98.

Source: Tamboran Resources Corporation 

As part of our year of action, certainty and security, the Finocchiaro CLP Government has delivered a brand-new STEAM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts and Mathematics) Centre at Katherine High School, with construction now complete on the $16.7 million project.

The centre will give students across the Katherine region access to a state-of-the-art learning facility, combining upgrades to existing buildings with new contemporary spaces to meet the needs of students, teachers and the wider school community.

As part of the project, local company M&J Builders provided Katherine High School students with hands on work experience through its Student Experience Initiative, giving them practical exposure to the construction industry, transferable skills and real-world experience.

More than 50 employees and subcontractors were supported through the delivery of the project.

Minister for Education and Training, and Member for Katherine Jo Hersey, said she was proud to advocate for the Katherine STEAM Centre and now see it delivered in Government.

“STEAM centres provide hands-on, real-world learning environments that prepare our children for the jobs of the future.” she said.

“I’m proud to have championed the Katherine STEAM centre while in opposition and to now deliver the funding to complete the project in government.

“As a strong advocate for regional equity in infrastructure and education, I can’t wait to see Katherine High School students making the most of all these fantastic new facilities.”

Students will be using the classrooms from the start of Term 3 on Tuesday, 15 July 2025.

Source: Northern Territory Government Newsroom

The Northern Territory Government’s Investment Summit will be held in Darwin from 15-17 July, bringing together more than 100 business leaders, investors and key stakeholders for the first event of its kind in the Northern Territory.

As part of the Finocchiaro CLP Government’s Rebuilding the Economy: NT Economy Strategy 2025, the three-day summit is hosted in partnership with the Darwin Major Business Group to showcase the Territory as a dynamic, innovative hub brimming with opportunity and economic potential.

Investors from around the world are travelling to Darwin bringing together companies from Japan, Indonesia, Malaysia, Singapore, Switzerland, Vietnam, China, India, Kuwait, New Zealand, the United Kingdom and the United States.

Attendees span a diverse range of sectors, including agriculture, oil, gas, mining, tourism and hospitality, infrastructure, digital and defence.

Participants will gain first-hand insights at major investment opportunities, including the onshore Beetaloo Sub-basin, the emerging maritime repair and maintenance industry, new tourism ventures in the Litchfield region, and large-scale developments at the Middle Arm Precinct.

Minister for Trade, Business and Asian Relations Robyn Cahill said the summit is a cornerstone of the CLP Government’s plan to rebuild the economy.

“The CLP is delivering on our year of action, certainty and security, holding the Investment Summit to demonstrate that the Northern Territory is open for businesses and full of potential," Ms Cahills said.

“We are working hard to make the Northern Territory the best place in Australia to do business. Investor confidence in the Territory’s energy sector is surging, with Beetaloo Energy Australia recently commencing the longest horizontal well drilled in the Beetaloo Sub-basin, with results expected as early as the third quarter this year.

“We are playing to our natural strengths in mining, defence, energy, agriculture and tourism and seeking partners with a strong, long-term commitment to developing these sectors. There has never been a better time to invest in the Northern Territory.”

Economic forecasts highlight this momentum. Deloitte Access Economics projects the Territory economy will grow by 5.1% in 2025-26, with an average growth rate of 3.3% per annum over the five years to 2029-30, the strongest of any jurisdiction in Australia. Business investment alone is forecast to grow by an average of 2.2% per annum over the same period.

Key highlights of the Investment Summit include:

Source: Northern Territory Government Newsroom

PERTH, AUSTRALIA – The Bonaparte CCS Assessment Joint Venture (INPEX Browse E&P Pty Ltd 53% as Operator; TotalEnergies CCS Australia Pty Ltd 26%; and Woodside Energy Ltd 21%) today welcomed the Australian Government awarding Major Project Status to the Bonaparte Carbon Capture and Storage (CCS) Project.

INPEX Managing Director and Country Chair Australia, Tetsu Murayama, said the announcement by Minister for Industry and Innovation and Minister for Science, Senator the Hon Tim Ayres, highlights the Bonaparte CCS Project’s recognised potential to support a lower carbon future.

“Being awarded Major Project Status is pleasing acknowledgement by the Australian Government of the Bonaparte CCS Project’s strategic importance in supporting the nation’s net zero goals. Significantly, this is the first offshore CCS project to receive Major Project Status in Australia.

“Appraisal works in 2024 confirmed a high-quality saline aquifer reservoir with thick sealing formations which appear suitable for safe and permanent carbon storage in the Bonaparte Basin, approximately 250 kilometres offshore Darwin. It is proving to be one of the most promising carbon dioxide (CO2) storage sites globally, with an anticipated capacity of more than 10 million tonnes per annum.

“This means the Bonaparte CCS Project could substantially contribute to decarbonising northern Australia and potentially the wider Indo-Pacific region.

“On behalf of the Bonaparte CCS Assessment Joint Venture, INPEX will continue engaging closely with community, and the Australian and Northern Territory governments to advance this significant project,” said Mr Murayama.

Preliminary front-end engineering design work commenced in April 2025 with first CO2 injection planned around 2030. The Ichthys Joint Venture is expected to be the anchor customer.

The Bonaparte CCS Assessment Joint Venture is now conducting detailed analysis of the reservoir appraisal data, to support a Declaration of Identified GHG Storage Formation application in advance of obtaining a greenhouse gas injection licence.

Media contact: Carina Peart; +61 451 399 660; carina.peart@inpex.com.au

Bonaparte Carbon Capture and Storage Project fact sheet

Source: INPEX