Top military brass shine spotlight on Darwin at key defence summit

Darwin and the Territory’s critical strategic role in national security will be underscored at a key defence summit starting today attended by top military brass, defence leaders, strategic analysts and policymakers.

Gary Shipway

less than 2 min read

April 27, 2025 - 10:40AM

Darwin and the Territory’s critical strategic role in national security will be underscored at a key defence summit

Northern Territory

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The Summit will look at:

Defence capability development in the Indo-Pacific.
Economic growth opportunities tied to defence initiatives in northern Australia.
Strengthening partnerships with defence and allied stakeholders.

It will spearhead NT Defence Week and the Territory’s push to drive the lucrative defence industry in the Territory.

Brigadier Matthew Quinn director general – Capital Facilities and Infrastructure Branch, Security and Estate Group, Department of Defence will be among the guest speakers at the summit as will BRIG Doug Pashley Commanding Officer, 1st Brigade – Australian Army.

There has been more than 1,600 event registrations which includes international representatives from Japan, the United States, and the United Kingdom.

More than 200 businesses will be represented.

Minister Robyn Cahill, Chief Minister Lia Finocchiaro will address a key defence summit. Picture: Darcy Fitzgerald

Chief Minister and Minister for Defence NT, Lia Finocchiaro, said the week will strengthen partnerships with major defence contractors, both domestic and international, to deliver long-term benefits for the Territory.

“The Northern Territory’s strategic location in the Indo-Pacific is a key driver of growth in our defence sector,” said Mrs Finocchiaro.

“NT Defence Week reflects the growing national and global interest in the Northern Territory’s defence capability and potential.”

This year’s theme, Uplifting Industry Across the North to Meet Capability Demands of the ADF, Allies and Partners, reflects the Territory’s growing role in enabling national defence readiness and regional co-operation.

NT Defence Week remains a vital platform for showcasing the Northern Territory’s strategic value and its ability to meet the evolving capability demands of Australia, our allies, and our partners.

DefenceNT will lead NT Defence Week 2025, held from Monday 28 April to Friday 2 May. .

Key highlights include: An expanded two-day summit; Integrated industry engagement through symposiums, industry tours, and meet-the-buyer sessions; and Chief Minister’s Defence Industry Excellence Awards.