Major events boost Territory economy by $40m, research finds

A number of major events over the past two years pumped almost $40m into the Territory’s economy, research commissioned by the NT’s peak events body found.

Major events in 2021 and 2022 pumped almost $40m into the Territory’s economy and attracted more than 100,000 visitor stays, research commissioned by the NT’s peak events body found.

The research revealed 22 events backed by Northern Territory Major Events Company brought in $39.8m and attracted 110,194 visitor nights.

It was taken from survey responses and undertaken by an independent company which measures it against industry benchmarks.

The events analysed included Darwin Fringe, Chariots of Thunder, Katherine Ultra, Alice Springs Beanie Festival and Darwin Lions Beer Can Regatta.

During the period studied, NTMEC supported about 70 events.

Events analysed as part of the research included the Darwin Lions Beer Can Regatta. Picture: Glenn Campbell

The 22 events attracted 99,882 attendances, with 14,874 visitors motivated to travel specifically for an event.

About 95 per cent of survey respondents said the Territory hosting major events was a good investment, while 88 per cent of respondents said the event they attended made them feel the Territory was an accepting and inclusive place.

Major Events Minister Paul Kirby said events played a vital role in driving tourism for the Territory’s regions.

“The Territory is home to an incredible calendar of events, which continue to deliver enormous benefits for the Northern Territory from both an economic and social standpoint.” he said.

“The Territory Labor Government is thrilled with these results and is proud to fund events that not only shine a light on the Territory and back local businesses, but give more interstate visitors a reason to come here.”

The next round of the NTMEC Event Funding Program will open early next year.