The NT Government has unveiled its strategy to milk $20 billion of defence spending.
The strategy was revealed last night in Canberra at a conference to 350 senior-level delegates from Australia and the United Sates.
Chief minister Michael Gunner said his number one priority is to create local jobs.
“We know the Australian Defence Force will play a significant role regarding investment and job creation in the NT with their $20 billion spend in Northern Australia and I am determined that local businesses get the best shot possible at winning contracts,” Mr Gunner said.
“These contracts will provide thousands of jobs.
“The Territory has a reputation as a great place to train - including for USA troops – and this is underpinning significant defence investment which means local jobs,” he said.
“The NT has a long and proud relationship with the USA and we warmly welcome ADF and American troops.”
The plan includes growing local industry in the supply chain for defence and national security projects and making the NT the posting of choice for defence personnel.
A networking night was held last week to help local businesses land more defence subcontracts in Katherine.
LendLease, Fulton Hogan and Laing O’Rourke educated locals on “what makes a good supplier”.
Almost $1 billion as been dedicated to upgrade RAAF Base Tindal, to prepare for the F-35A Joint Strike Fighters and the KC-30A Multi Role Tanker Transport.
