Darwin businesses plan for jobs and expansion in wake of $5.6bn Santos plan

TWO East Arm businesses have already started planning for expansion following Santos’ announcement that it will be going ahead with its $5.6bn Barossa gas project

TWO East Arm businesses have already started planning for expansion following Santos’ announcement that it will be going ahead with its $5.6bn Barossa gas project 300km north of Darwin.

The SAGE Group has plans to construct new premises to allow for future expansion.

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SAGE NT general manager Andrew Meaney said the new purpose-built facility would be in Berrimah Business Park.

“The office will enable enhanced operations for the Darwin-based team and allow for future growth,” he said.

“That’s good for us and it’s good for the Territory economy.

SAGE's GM Andrew Meaney, Kaefer's Tommy O'Brein and Trent Northover as Santos makes a project announcement at Kaefer's East Arm Plant Picture Glenn Campbell

“SAGE has been working with Santos for about 20 years and more recently we have a contract to support Santos at Darwin LNG.

“We will be investing in a new facility in Darwin which allows us to grow our brand and our footprint and ultimately more jobs for Territory workers.

“We have 40 workers at present and the Barossa project potentially means more jobs.

Kaefer Eastern Australia general manager Trent Northover said his companies currently employed 150 locals.

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“Santos’ decision is fantastic news and we are excited about the long term tenure with the business,” he said.

“We are part of the existing operations at Darwin LNG working in maintenance services.

“The Barossa decision opens up new opportunities for work. We have just been awarded drilling program work and we are excited about future growth as this project gathers pace.”