Co-ordinator Bill passed: New powers to consolidate regulatory processes for Territory projects

The new Territory Co-ordinator Bill was passed in the early hours of NT parliament today. Read what it does.

Interim Territory Co-ordinator Stuart Knowles.

The new Territory Co-ordinator Bill was passed in the early hours of NT parliament today.

A parliamentary committee tasked with scrutinising the controversial Territory Co-ordinator Bill made dozens of recommendations for changes to the draft legislation before its passing. The relatively modest recommended changes included defining “economic development”, removing the Local Government Act from the scope of the Territory Co-ordinator’s influence, and committing to an independent review in five years time.

The Legislative Scrutiny Committee released its report into the Territory Co-ordinator Bill last week after receiving hundreds of submissions and hosting two days of hearings.

The Territory Co-ordinator was a centrepiece election commitment of the CLP, promising to cut red tape and promote economic growth.

The Bill establishes the Territory Co-ordinator, granting both him and the responsible minister a range of powers to co-ordinate and consolidate regulatory processes for projects and developments of economic significance to the NT.

Parliament in Darwin sat into the early hours of the morning to pass the new Territory Co-ordinator Bill Picture: Pema Tamang Pakhrin

Chief Minister Lia Finocchiaro said the new legislation delivers on the CLP government’s promise to streamline decision-making and ensure a more co-ordinated response to supporting significant and complex developments in the Territory.

She said it redefines the way business will be done in the Northern Territory.

“This Bill strengthens our ability to deliver economic growth, attract investment, and streamline processes, she said.

“It ensures we have the right structures in place to drive significant economic development opportunities efficiently and with certainty.”

The Territory Co-ordinator will work closely with government agencies, industry, and key stakeholders to prioritise projects, provide expert advice, and ensure the Territory remains competitive on a national and global stage.

Mrs Finocchiaro also acknowledged the extensive community engagement undertaken during the consultation period.

“I’d like to thank interim Territory Co-ordinator Stuart Knowles and my department for their dedication,” she said.

Ms Finocchiaro said the passing of the Territory Co-ordinator Bill is a key component of the government’s broader strategy to drive economic growth and reinforce the Territory’s commitment in rebuilding the economy.

Originally published as Co-ordinator Bill passed: New powers to consolidate regulatory processes for Territory projects