Leaders question timeline on NT’s federal budget project delivery

The NT gets to take one of the biggest pieces of the budget pie, but what will it mean for you? Here’s what the opposition, industry and everyday Territorians think.

A whopping $2.5bn infrastructure investment has been described as a “standout” for the Territory, but concerns have been raised on how and when that money will flow.

The spend is the biggest of any state or territory besides Victoria in the federal budget which Chief Minster Natasha Fyles says is evidence of the NT being “the future of Australia”.

However, the opposition has raised doubts that the $1.5bn Middle Arm commitment contains enough detail.

Deputy CLP leader Gerard Maley said the CLP would keep a close eye on whether the funds were delivered effectively.

“On the face of it, there seems to be a lot of money through the Northern Territory and money into the Territory is always a good thing,” Mr Maley said.

“But the real test is going to be for the Natasha Fyles government to get that money onto the ground.

Deputy CLP leader Gerard Maley said the budget’s delivery of cheaper childcare and greater paid parental leave would roll out too slowly in light of urgent cost-of-living pressures. Picture: Glenn Campbell

“There has been lots of talk about projects like Middle Arm and the Tanami for a lot of years, and the (Alice Springs) art project, but really, have they started?

“I hope it works out but really, I don’t think it will.

“They just can’t get the money on the ground and Territorians are hurting right now on the day-to-day cost of living.”

Mr Maley was also critical of a lack of “immediate action” on cost-of-living pressures.

“Right now, Territorians are hurting out there,” he said.

“A lot of money is being promised but the timeline is unclear, and the programs run over a long time – seven years and eight years (for Middle Arm).”

Industry leaders have welcomed the budget’s big-ticket NT items and focus on workforce participation.

Tourism Central Australia chief executive Danial Rochford said the $80m spend on the National Aboriginal Art Gallery, along with major road upgrades would support the Red Centre.

“This announcement is massive news for Central Australia … it will lead to a boom for tourism,” Mr Rochford said.

“It has essentially ticked off all of our major priorities.

“We’re so excited the funding is in place for the gallery – now is the time roll up the sleeves and get this project done.”

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NT Chamber of Commerce chief executive Greg Ireland said the budget’s expanded paid parental leave and cheaper child care would help more Territorians get into work and fill labour shortages.

“We also notice additional federal money on processing visas which is absolutely vital for meeting workforce demands,” Mr Ireland said.

“This budget is very practical and fairly restrained in light of significant future challenges, but it’s great to see all the Territory commitments in there.

“Major project investment creates business confidence and that creates private investment – exactly what the Territory needs right now.”

Vox Pop: What do locals and interstate travellers think of the federal budget?

NT News hit the streets and asked what locals and interstate visitors thought of the latest federal budget.

Melissa O’Brien, a nurse from Canberra, said she did not see a lot that would support health and public health across Australia.

Melissa O’Brien spoke to the NT News on Wednesday morning in the Darwin CBD about the federal budget. Picture: Floss Adams.

“I didn’t delve into the details so there might have been stuff in there I missed but I certainly didn’t see anything that would support the Northern Territory either,” Ms O’Brien said.

“I’m hoping that there’s good things for people here and provide health services and education across the Territory.”

Former Darwin Port chief executive Darren Lambourn, currently having a break from working, said the budget “all in all wasn’t too bad”.

Former chief executive of Darwin Port Darren Lambourn was supportive of the budget. Picture: Floss Adams.

“I think the Northern Territory did pretty well with the Middle Arm investment in there, I think that’s quite smart,” Mr Lambourn said.

“It’ll boost the economy and also get ready for renewal but industries will come through here and also manufacturing.

“We’re only small but this will actually change a lot and there’s a lot of work to be done.”

Melbourne retiree Pamela Hart said this financial year’s federal budget was a responsible one.

Retiree from Melbourne, Pamela Hart thought the budget lacked surprises.. Picture: Floss Adams.

“I find the budget a very boring exercise but I made myself listen to some of it,” Ms Hart said.

“What I gather it’s just a steady lets get moving budget, it had no surprises in it.

“It’s just the government doing business and letting us know what they’re up to, which is what democracy is all about, a bit of transparency.”

Originally published as Leaders question timeline on NT’s federal budget project delivery