Country Liberal Party to pitch key concerns to Anthony Albanese during Darwin visit
In a bid to meet their political objectives, the Country Liberal Party has narrowed down which topics it will raise with Prime Minister Anthony Albanese later this month when the nation’s top leader comes to Darwin for Christmas.
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Driving down airfare costs, boosting mining operations and improving roads are just some of the key objectives Chief Minister Lia Finocchiaro hopes to bring to Prime Minister Anthony Albanese’s attention when the PM visits Darwin for Christmas.
While Mr Albanese will be using his trip to Darwin to commemorate the 50th anniversary of Cyclone Tracy, the CLP has confirmed a ‘wish list’ it hopes to bring to the Prime Minister’s attention.
With Mr Albanese announcing he would be in Darwin to commemorate the 50th anniversary of Cyclone Tracy, the NT News asked the CLP if it would use the opportunity to raise any key concerns or opportunities.
The CLP confirmed nine topics would be raised with the nation’s leader.
DEFENCE
The Northern Territory is a critical frontline for national security. More troops and investment are needed, both behind the wire and beyond, are essential to strengthening our defence capabilities and supporting long-term economic growth.
ROADS
The Stuart, Barkly, and Victoria highways are lifelines for industry, tourism, and remote communities, yet their condition holds back development. Strengthening these roads are of strategic importance and will unlock economic opportunities, improve safety, and ensure efficient transport of goods and services across the region.
GAS
The Beetaloo Basin has the potential to supercharge Australia’s energy independence. Federal support to help the Basin reach full production capacity would secure domestic gas supplies, lower energy costs, and position the Territory as a leader in energy exports.
POPULATION
Reviving the NT’s population growth requires bold initiatives. Tax incentives to live and work in the Territory would grow our population, retain skilled workers, and incentivise investment.
MIGRATION
Flexible migration policies tailored to the Territory’s unique needs could alleviate skill shortages and address the challenges of servicing remote and regional areas. Streamlined visa processes and incentives for skilled migrants to settle in the NT are essential to rebuilding the economy.
AVIATION
Territorians deserve better access to affordable and reliable air travel options. Improving competition and connectivity with major domestic and international hubs will bolster tourism, local businesses, and enhance the quality of life for Territorians.
RESILIENCE INITIATIVES
The NT faces frequent challenges from natural disasters and extreme weather events. Federal investment in resilience and capacity-building initiatives is crucial to prepare for and mitigate the impact of these events, protecting lives and property.
MINERALS
The Northern Territory is rich in critical minerals essential to Australia’s renewable energy transition and global technology supply chains. By facilitating exploration, development, and investment, the NT can play a leading role in securing these vital resources while driving economic growth.
HELPING UNLOCK OUR POTENTIAL
Investing in the Northern Territory isn’t just about supporting a single region — it’s about strengthening the entire nation. The NT’s untapped potential holds the key to solving some of Australia’s most pressing challenges, from energy security and defence to population growth and resource development. Every dollar spent on developing the north is an investment in a stronger, more secure, and more prosperous Australia.
No wish list was provided to the NT News by Territory Labor, however opposition leader Selena Uibo said she looked forward to working with Mr Albanese.
“I commend the Prime Minister for coming to Darwin on Christmas Day to support survivors of Cyclone Tracy,” she said.
“The strong partnership between the Commonwealth Government and the Northern Territory has delivered over $5 billion into Territory education and housing in the last year, and it is this partnership I am looking to build on to deliver better outcomes in health, cost-of-living relief and to tackle domestic, family and sexual violence.”
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