Solomon MLA Luke Gosling expecting $270b Federal defence spend to create NT jobs, opportunities

FEDERAL Member for Solomon Luke Gosling says there’s good reason to think that the Federal Government’s announcement last week of $270 billion over the next 10 years for enhanced capability – including $8 billion for NT defence infrastructure – is serious and will benefit Territory businesses and workers.

Larrakeyah Naval Base is a vital part of Australia’s defence system and a training ground for personnel. Picture: Justin Kennedy

• NT defence spend amid $270B Commonwealth military cash splash uncertain as some projects scrapped
• New military base to be built in Northern Australia as part of 10-year $270b mega defence spend
• Push to base long-range, anti-ship missiles at RAAF Base Tindal after PM’s $270bn Defence cash splash

FEDERAL Member for Solomon Luke Gosling says there’s good reason to think that the Federal Government’s announcement last week of $270 billion over the next 10 years for enhanced capability – including $8 billion for NT defence infrastructure – is serious and will benefit Territory businesses and workers.

Mr Gosling, who is also chair of Federal Labor’s Indo-Pacific Trade Taskforce, said while Territory businesses often had to fight to get a fair hearing and Defence spending promises in the NT were painfully slow to be delivered, he was optimistic that this time was different because of how urgent it was for Australia to acquire the modern capabilities to credibly defend our nation.

“Big-ticket defence announcements can sometimes make your eyes glaze over and go ‘yeah, right’,” he said.

“However the point of these capabilities, and the strategy behind them, is to keep adversaries at bay and fight away from our shores.

“That will mean upgrades worth $75 billion to expand maritime forces.

“The Top End, as the tip of the spear, has a big role to play in defending the nation and our businesses do, too.

“This will mean opportunities for local work.”

Federal Member for Solomon Luke Gosling. Picture: Keri Megelus

MORE NT BUSINESS NEWS

Mills says he believes fracking could be done safely in the NT

CLP to fast-track Middle Arm manufacturing hub if elected

Northern Territory tungsten mine given major project status

He said that work will be in maintenance, sustainment and resupply of more vessels ported in Darwin, such as mine hunters, offshore patrol vessels, unmanned underwater vehicles, maybe even larger surface combatants and more regular allied port visits in Darwin.

Mr Gosling said it could also mean a possible expansion of permanent ADF members posted in the NT.

“If we focus on that being the baseline scenario in five-to-ten years, it can help us think about the skills, services and goods that locals will be asked to provide,” he said.

“There will be opportunities in everything from advanced manufacturing technology research based at CDU to construction projects and rations and other goods and services in the Defence supply chain.

“In the longer term, young Territorians could consider studying STEM-based degrees to train and integrate into the defence market locally. Or, if they’re keen, they could do that degree through ADFA in Canberra (with no HECS) to then return as one of the up to 800 extra ADF personnel who may rotate through or be posted in the Territory.

“In either role, the next generation will be doing all Territorians proud.”

LIMITED TIME: New NT News subscription offer: $1 a week for the first 12 weeks

Mr Gosling said the NT Government had worked hard with the Federal Government to make the NT a major asset to the defence of Australia.

“This is a national cause if ever there was one,” he said.

“I will keep fighting for the Territorians involved in this important national effort.”