$495 Million Defence Boost to Territory Jobs

10 July 2018

NT Government: Chief Minister Michael Gunner today said the $495 million Defence investment in the Larrakeyah Barracks is significant news for Territorians, with hundreds of jobs expected to be created in Darwin when works commence in September.

“This is big news for the Territory and will create hundreds of jobs for Territorians both immediately and in the long-term.

“My number one priority is to create local jobs and fight for Territory business and this announcement means Territory businesses will have a shot at securing work as part of $500 million worth of Defence jobs in the next five years.

“This is why we have invested in a strong Defence Advocate in Air Vice Marshall Margaret Staib – to better position local businesses to be able to win these contracts.

“The Defence Advocate and I have met with Ministers, Defence and most recently, the defence personnel and the project manager for this job, to fight for jobs for locals with all defence projects.”

Mr Gunner said the investment also meant more Navy personnel and families living in Darwin and is a huge boost for our ship lift and marine industries.

“The Territory Labor Government continues to invest in critical infrastructure supporting defence activity, including $100 million in the Darwin Ship Lift, and this massive investment will also support that,” Mr Gunner said.

The work includes a $223 million redevelopment of Larrakeyah Barracks redevelopment and $272.5 million for facilities to support naval operations in the North.

“With these projects due for completion in 2023, this represents a great opportunity for Territory businesses.

“This is on top of last week’s announcement by the Australian Government to acquire six Northrop Grumman MQ-4C Triton UAS (Unmanned Aerial Systems), creating 70 jobs for the Northern Territory and South Australia, which includes $364 million for the construction of new operational and support facilities at RAAF bases, including Tindal.

“The Territory Labor Government will always fight for Territory jobs, and we are now well positioned to take advantage of the Australian Defence Force’s $20 billion spend over the next 20 years in Northern Australia.”

 

--ENDS--

 

Source:  Northern Territory Government - www.newsroom.nt.gov.au

Contact:  Media Contact: Cameron Angus - 0404 021 192

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