Talks over the future of the Darwin Port come up empty

The Northern Territory has walked away empty-handed from its meeting in Canberra on the future of Darwin Port and pointed the finger at Labor’s Member for Solomon, Luke Gosling, saying he has no influence within his own government. Read why

Darwin port congestion

The Northern Territory has walked away empty-handed from its meeting in Canberra on the future of Darwin Port and pointed the finger at Labor’s Member for Solomon, Luke Gosling, saying he has no influence within his own government.

Logistics and Infrastructure Minister Bill Yan said Mr Gosling’s years talking big about the Port advocating for the lease to be in Australian hands, have been wasted.

“The Labor Member for Solomon, Luke Gosling, has no influence within his own government party room,” Mr Yan said.

“No clear pathway forward has been determined from our meeting in Canberra, with Federal Government officials citing election timing.

“Territorians deserve certainty about the future of Darwin Port, but today were left with none.

“Darwin Port is essential to the Territory’s economy, supporting trade, industry, and jobs, while also playing a key role in Australia’s strategic defence and regional security.”

Mr Yan, who is also the Treasurer, said uncertainty over the Darwin Port’s future — exacerbated by Landbridge’s recent financial disclosures — continues to raise concerns about its long-term stability.

Darwin port

“Mr Gosling has spent years talking big about the Port, but when it comes to delivering real results for Territorians, he’s nowhere to be seen,” Mr Yan said.

“Despite his grandstanding over the past week, it is clear his own Government is not ready to support him.”

Mr Gosling hit back describing the government’s attack as bizarre.

“This is a bizarre attempt by the Northern Territory Treasurer to reframe the history of his party leasing the port – if he was serious – he would’ve gone to Canberra with the departmental officials himself,” Mr Gosling said.

“He continues to fail to clarify whether Landbridge is meeting all the contractual requirements of the lease – which is very concerning.

“A commercial deal is possible with a willing seller, and I’ll continue to work with private Australian investors, Landbridge, and the Prime Minister’s Office to ensure that we achieve the outcome that is best for Territorians, and Australia.”

Mr Yan said that while Prime Minister Anthony Albanese had no hesitation in assisting Whyalla to secure sovereign steel production, there is no plan when it comes to Darwin Port, an asset of equal sovereign importance.

“If the Federal Government is serious about securing Darwin Port’s future, it’s time a plan is put on the table and provide certainty for Territorians, businesses, and our economy,” he said.

Originally published as Talks over the future of the Darwin Port come up empty