Industry News

APA announces the registration of an Indigenous Land Use Agreement (ILUA) with Traditional Owners for the Sturt Plateau Pipeline (SPP) in the Northern Territory.

Facilitated by the Northern Land Council (NLC), in accordance with its statutory functions, this milestone closes out the necessary Traditional Owner consents required to move forward with the project, complementing the separate and existing agreement in place between Traditional Owners and APA’s customer for the SPP, Tamboran Resources.
 
APA’s ILUA establishes a clear framework for engagement with Traditional Owners as APA progresses the SPP, setting out arrangements addressing social, economic, and environmental considerations and ensuring structured and ongoing collaboration with relevant Traditional Owners throughout the life of the project.
 
APA CEO and Managing Director Adam Watson said the agreement underlines APA’s ongoing commitment to strong engagement with Traditional Owners as it progresses the SPP project.
 
"The Sturt Plateau Pipeline is the crucial first-stage link to enable Beetaloo gas to reach power generation assets that keep the lights on across the Northern Territory and this agreement provides the required consent from Traditional Owners to progress this important project.
 
“The registration of this ILUA provides a strong foundation for the Sturt Plateau Pipeline to proceed in close partnership with Traditional Owners, ensuring the project is delivered safely and responsibly. This is a critical milestone as we work to maintain positive and lasting relationships with Traditional Owners and builds on the agreement already in place with APA’s customer."
 
The SPP is a 37-kilometre pipeline that will connect Tamboran’s Shenandoah South Pilot Project in the Beetaloo Basin to APA’s Amadeus Gas Pipeline (AGP). The new infrastructure will ensure Beetaloo gas is available to support power generation in the Northern Territory from 2026.
 
The project has received a pipeline licence from the Northern Territory Government. Construction is scheduled to commence September 2025, with the estimated ~$66.5 million project to be completed in early 2026.
 
APA will continue to engage closely with Traditional Owners, landholders, and other stakeholders as the project advances.

Source: APA Group

The derelict Northern Endeavour floating production storage and offloading (FPSO) vessel is just days away from its final departure from the Laminaria-Corallina field to be towed to Singapore, ENB can exclusively reveal today.

According to anonymous sources close to the project, the FPSO is currently due to start its 18-day tow to Singapore on 22 September.

The revelations come as teams working on the project work to sever the vessel from its nine subsea anchors, which have tied it to the seabed for more than twenty years.

Work to disconnect the vessel from the nine wells to which it was attached was completed in April.

The vessel's departure from the fields - about 550km west-north-west of Darwin and 160km south of Timor – will mark the end of phase one of the decommissioning program.

That will enable phase two – the decommissioning of the seabed– to start, a process which is being overseen by Kent, as reported by ENB last month.

Source: Energy News Bulletin

Cutting red tape, speeding up contracts, and putting local businesses first - the Finocchiaro CLP Government is modernising procurement to make it easier than ever to do business in the Territory.

Minister for Trade, Business and Asian Relations, Robyn Cahill said the changes are designed to cut unnecessary red tape, make procurement more effective for all stakeholders, and drive productivity and economic growth.

“Under our Rebuilding the Economy Strategy, we want to make the Territory the best place in the nation to live, work, visit and invest,” said Ms Cahill.

“These reforms are about streamlining processes and removing unnecessary barriers so businesses and government can get on with the job more quickly.”

“As part of our year of action, certainty and security, we are committed to delivering programs and policies that strengthen local business participation, rebuild the economy and drive growth.”

“Doing business with the government is changing from 1 October, and I encourage Territory businesses to attend an information session in their region to learn more about the procurement reforms.”

From 1 October 2025, the Northen Territory Government will implement changes to purchasing tiers.

• Tier 1 will increase from $15,000 to $50,000
• Tier 2 will increase from $100,000 to $200,000

Direct purchasing from Territory enterprises will be streamlined under the new Tier 1 and 2 thresholds for low risk, readily available and commonly used goods and services.

The simplified rules will remove administrative hurdles, reduce delays, and enhance efficiency for purchases such as milk, office chairs or one-off cleaning services.

Other key reforms include the establishment of a Territory Procurement Champion to support local businesses, handle procurement complaints at arm’s length, and work with government to deliver more local procurement outcomes. Work is already underway to appoint the Territory Procurement Champion.

A Procurement Reform Roadshow will be rolled out across all regions in September, giving Territory businesses the opportunity to attend free information sessions and learn more about the changes.

The reforms will be progressively implemented across 2025 and 2026.

To find out more about the procurement reforms or to register for an information session in your region visit nt.gov.au/procurement  

Source: Northern Territory Government Newsroom

The Finocchiaro CLP Government is unlocking the full potential of the Beetaloo Sub-basin, approving two game-changing infrastructure projects worth $210 million that will fuel economic growth, create more than 200 jobs, and deliver long-term prosperity for Territorians.

Work begins this month on the Territory’s first-ever Beetaloo pipeline, with APA Group investing $70 million to deliver the 37-kilometre Sturt Plateau Pipeline, connecting Tamboran Resources’ Shenandoah South Project to the Amadeus Gas Pipeline.

Separately, Tamboran has secured approval from Traditional Owners, the Northern Land Council and the NT Government to recover appraisal gas for sale from Exploration Permit 98, paving the way for construction of the $140 million Sturt Plateau Compression Facility. Together, these projects establish the first clear pathway to market for Beetaloo gas - unlocking royalties, powering Territory homes and businesses, and cementing the NT’s place as an energy powerhouse.

Chief Minister Lia Finocchiaro said the investment marks a turning point for the Territory’s economy. Minister for Mining and Energy Gerard Maley said the approvals prove the NT is ready to lead on energy, creating real opportunities for Territorians and positioning the NT as a world-class energy hub.

This week, the Department of Mining and Energy will host Northern Australia’s premier mining industry conference as part of NT Resources Week, 3-4 September in Darwin. Key themes include navigating global trade dynamics, insights into the gold and critical minerals sectors, updates from major mines, new exploration initiatives in Tennant Creek and Barkly, company updates from leading exploration firms, and regional infrastructure projects. Tamboran Resources Chair and Interim CEO, Dick Stoneburner, will also provide an update on Tamboran’s development milestones.

Source: Northern Territory Government Newsroom

The Finocchiaro CLP Government is investing in remote communities, with a planned $4.14 million upgrade to the Borroloola Power Station to strengthen economic growth in the region.

The Borroloola Power Station has an existing power supply of 1.8 megawatts, supported by three 1MVA step-up transformers.

With several electricity connection requests, including one for the Borroloola Health Clinic and another for Jirrbilyi Borroloola Central, a new commercial multi-use precinct, demand for power in the community is expected to rise by 58 per cent.

Minister for Essential Services Steve Edgington said the power upgrade was part of the CLP government’s commitment to working with Aboriginal communities and partnering with local businesses, organisations and the Australian government to create economic resilience and foster development in the region.

“This is an important investment that will increase the reliability and efficiency of power supply, and rebuild economic development in the community,” he said.

“We are ensuring Borroloola has the services and critical enabling infrastructure it needs to grow and improve the lives of locals.”

The CLP Government has committed $20 million to construct the Borroloola Health Centre and recently opened the $11.7 million Borroloola Sports and Cyclone Shelter.

Jointly funded by the NT Government and the McArthur River Mine Community Benefits Trust (MRMCBT), the dual-purpose facility saw $9.8 million delivered through a grant to the Roper Gulf Regional Council (RGRC), with MRMCBT contributing a further $1.5 million and RGRC $400,000.

The MRMCBT and Australian government will invest $23 million toward the multi-use development Jirrbilyi Borroloola Central.

The project will include three commercial tenancies, 6 retail tenancies, a renal dialysis clinic, child and family centre, youth centre, Northern Territory Government service hub, and other important services including a pharmacy.

“Borroloola is a strong and growing community, and we are committed to delivering more services,” Mr Edgington said.

“Whether it’s a health clinic or a multi-purpose service centre, the community will need more power, so investing in an upgrade to the power station is vital.

“In our year of action, certainty and security it’s all part of our plan to rebuild the economy by working with businesses and industry to expand the access to services that will improve the lives of Territorians.”

The delivery of the upgrade to Borroloola Power Station by Power and Water will include:

·         A new fourth generator (1 MW)

·         Expanded fuel storage

·         Upgraded transformers and switchgear

Power and Water will work with Territory contractors on the upgrade, and with local health services and businesses to ensure Borroloola’s future energy needs are met.

Mr Edgington said these enhancements will increase the station’s capacity and enable new customers to connect to the network.

“This investment ensures families, households, local groups, businesses and health services will continue to have the reliable power they need,” he said.

The Borroloola Power Station upgrade is expected to be completed in September 2026.

Source: Northern Territory Government Newsroom

As part of our year of action, certainty and security, the Finocchiaro CLP Government is backing the Territory’s next wave of entrepreneurs with Startup September 2025.

Speaking at the launch in Darwin, Minister for Trade, Business and Asian Relations Robyn Cahill said Startup September offers early-stage businesses a series of practical workshops delivered by subject matter experts who will guide participants on getting their business started.

“Startup September is about turning Territory ideas into action. As part of our plan to rebuild the economy, the CLP is supporting Territorians with the drive and ideas to turn them into thriving businesses.” said Ms Cahill.

“Our goal is simple – make the Territory the best place in the nation to live, work, visit and invest.”

“Under our Rebuilding the Economy Strategy, through events like Startup September, we continue to show that the Northern Territory is open for business,” said Ms Cahill.

The event, held in partnership with the Business Enterprise Centre NT (BECNT), kicked off with a feature showcase of 15 NT businesses.  Showcase businesses span the NT, from Darwin to Katherine to Alice Springs, representing innovation across tourism, fashion, tech, food and beverage, Indigenous arts, and social enterprise.

A short pitch competition featuring three early-stage entrepreneurs was also held, with the winner receiving a startup package including a free business website, CRM and accounting software, and branding support

Throughout the month, the program will highlight support from the CLP Government, including programs such as the Business Growth Program, Flexible Skills and Training Response Program, and provide workshops delivered by subject matter experts as well as free business mentoring for startups.

Businesses can also access support from the government’s Territory Business Advisors, who provide practical, tailored advice that helps businesses start, grow, adapt and succeed.

Now in its fourth year, Startup September has so far supported more than 300 Territorians start their business.

The launch of Startup September coincides with the Business Enterprise Centre NT celebrating 25 years of supporting small businesses in the Territory.

BECNT General Manager Niall Richardson said, “Startup September is about giving Territory entrepreneurs the support, skills, and belief to turn their ideas into real businesses.

“We’re thrilled to be launching this year’s program with such a vibrant showcase of NT talent — and to be celebrating 25 years of BECNT alongside the very community we serve. We thank the Northern Territory Government for their ongoing partnership and look forward to the next 25 years of growing Territory businesses.”

Businesses can connect with their local Territory Business Advisor by phone 1800 193 111 or email businessinfo@nt.gov.au

Source: Northern Territory Government Newsroom

The Finocchiaro CLP Government is powering ahead in its year of action, certainty and security, unveiling the full line-up for October Business Month (OBM) today.

Minister for Trade, Business and Asian Relations Robyn Cahill said more than 70 event partners will hold over 200 events across the Territory during October.

"OBM was first introduced by the CLP 30 years ago - backing local business is in our DNA.

“OBM is equipping Territory businesses with the tools to succeed—supporting growth, jobs and the rebuilding of our economy,” said Ms Cahill.

This year’s theme Play to Our Strengths will focus on digitalisation, using AI to implement technology; workforce attraction and talent retention; and resilience in business.

Some OBM highlights:

• The Business Support Showcase, in Alice Springs, brings together service providers from the Australian Government, Northern Territory Government, and a range of non-government organisations to share practical tools, resources, and advice to help Territorians grow their business.
• OBM Platinum Sponsor NAB will bring economist Tapas Strickland, Head of Market Economics at NAB, to Darwin and Alice Springs to provide an update on the Territory’s economy.
• Other feature events include the first Darwin Rural Business Connect networking event, in Humpty Doo, hosted by AusIndustry and the Business Futures Forum – an event designed to shape the Future of Business in Palmerston.

There are a wide range of events on offer, both in-person and online, for businesses to upskill, reskill and network. Topics covered include cyber security, AI, growth and scale, financial literacy, talent assessment and retention, workplace wellness and mental health, digital marketing, public speaking and strategies for business success.

Three new Territory success stories have been added to the line up including Brook Summers, Studio B Designs and Art by Brooke; Doug McBean, North Horizon Heli Adventures and Crystal Pollitt, Bark n’ Bath. 

All of our Territory success stories will be showcased at keynote events and also include Anneliese Grazioli, Dan Richards, Vicki-Leigh Lettice, Anita Synnott, Paul Graham and Laura-Jane (LJ) Devlin.

Tickets are still available to all OBM keynote events, this year’s line-up includes two of Australia’s leading entrepreneurs:

• Carolyn Creswell – inspirational leader, founder and CEO of Australia’s favourite muesli brand, Carman’s Kitchen. 
• Simon Griffiths - social entrepreneur, co-Founder and CEO of the eco-friendly toilet paper brand, Who Gives A Crap.

Book now at obm.nt.gov.au

Source: Northern Territory Government Newsroom

Highlights:

• Strong free cash flow from operations of US$1.1 billion
• Sales revenue of US$2.6 billion
• EBITDAX of US$1.8 billion
• Net profit after tax of US$439 million, underlying profit of US$508 million
• Gearing at 23.7 per cent (20.5 per cent excluding leases) and liquidity of US$3.9 billion
• Interim dividend declared of US13.4 cents per share, franked to 10 per cent, totalling US$435 million
• Unit production cost of US$7.28 per boe excluding Bayu-Undan
• Strong average realised LNG price of US$11.57 per mmbtu
• Darwin LNG ready for startup (RFSU) milestone achieved
• Barossa LNG FPSO rapidly approaching RFSU
• Pikka phase 1 seawater treatment plant and all production modules on location, first oil guidance accelerated to the first quarter of 2026

Source: Santos

Highlights:

• Tamboran Resources Corporation has reached an historic agreement with Native Title Holders and the Northern Land Council for the sale of appraisal gas from its Exploration Permits in the Beetaloo Basin (Agreement).
• The Agreement provides Native Title Holders’ consent to the Beetaloo Joint Venture (BJV) to sell appraisal gas from EP 98 and EP 117 of up to 60 TJ per day from the proposed Shenandoah South Pilot Project over a three-year period. The BJV will now focus on securing necessary approvals to support longer-term production.
• The BJV has contracted an initial 40 MMcf/d to supply the Northern Territory Government until mid-2041, which is expected to provide energy security for Territorians. First gas is planned in mid-2026, subject to weather conditions and customary stakeholder approvals.
• Tamboran maintains strong working relationships with the Native Title Holders across its operated acreage. The Company plans to continue delivering financial benefits, training, employment, and contracting opportunities to the Native Title Holders and the local community.
• Tamboran will continue working with Native Title Holders and the Northern Land Council to ensure the development of the Beetaloo is a genuine partnership that represents significant and long-term economic and social benefits

Source: Tamboran Resources ASX Announcement

A new Finocchiaro CLP Government program, Accelerate, is giving Territory business leaders the support they need to grow faster and go further.

Accelerate is delivered in partnership with the Australian Centre for Business Growth (AUCBG) and builds on the success of the Business Acceleration Program (BAP).

Established in 2018, BAP equipped participants with the knowledge and skills to develop as leaders and accelerate company growth.

Accelerate has been repositioned to focus on opportunities aligned to Territory Government priorities for export, workforce, defence and gas.

Minister for Trade, Business and Asian Relations, Robyn Cahill said Accelerate was designed to drive business capability, sustain economic growth, create jobs and strengthen supply chains across the Territory.

“As part of our year of action, certainty and security, the Finocchiaro CLP Government is proud to deliver a world-class program for Territory businesses that is proven to sustainably and rapidly grow revenue and jobs for local small and medium enterprises (SMEs),” Ms Cahill said.

“The Accelerate program provides tailored support for CEOs and managing directors at all stages of their business journey, whether starting out or looking to expand operations.”

“Small and medium-sized businesses represent 99.6% of the Territory’s business sector. Accelerate presents an opportunity to grow private investment, fuel economic growth and build a bigger workforce.”

“Under our Rebuilding the Economy Strategy, Accelerate is a part of our plan to make the Territory the best place to do business.”

The program will equip participants with essential skills and strategies to grow their business rapidly and sustainably through a blend of world-class mentoring, practical tools and specialist training.

Ryan Williams, Director, Australian Centre for Business Growth said, “The Territory has a vibrant business community, and we’re proud to help it thrive now and into the future through our partnership with the Northern Territory Government.”

“Accelerate’s targeted approach will equip Territory CEOs and business owners with proven tools and strategies to grow and scale their companies, as well as the capability and confidence to seize opportunities, enter new markets and drive lasting economic growth.”

Accelerate will run across 2025-26 and assist 140 businesses across 5 streams:

• Growth Assessment Clinics: half day/full day workshops for participants ready to grow their business and become better leaders 
• Growth Ramp Workshop: a series of 6, full-day sessions over 6 months for participants looking to move to move to the next level, hire more people and growth their organisation.
• Growth Module Workshops: a series of three, 3-day sessions over 9 months for participants and their executive team to build skills their company needs to achieve sustainable and continuous growth.
• Intensive Growth Seminars: Two, 2-day modules six months apart coaching, continuing learning management system access and peer support
• AUCBG online learning program: Access to a self-paced growth program designed by the growth experts at the Australian Centre for Business Growth.

For more information and to apply visit https://centreforbusinessgrowth.com/

Source: Northern Territory Government Newsroom