The Northern Territory is a place defined by opportunity, resilience, and strong community connections.

At INPEX, my Darwin-based team and I are proud to contribute to that success through the ongoing operations of Ichthys LNG and the partnerships we have built across the Territory.

As the dry season brings people together for community events, cultural celebrations and business activities, it provides an opportunity to reflect on the relationships, sponsorships and partnerships that contribute to growth and create value for Territorians through the efforts of INPEX, our contractors and many local businesses.

INPEX’s success is built on these relationships. We greatly value our contractors and local businesses are valued partners who contribute expertise, uphold standards of safety and performance, and help deliver benefits that extend well beyond our operations.

Many of these businesses have been part of the Northern Territory for generations. Their capability, innovation, and local expertise are critical to our operations, while also driving economic growth and helping develop the skilled workforce that will support the Territory’s future.

The dry season is also one of the most rewarding times of the year for INPEX’s community engagement. Alongside our contractors, our local workforce and I participate in a range of community events, cultural celebrations, educational initiatives and stakeholder activities across the Territory.

One example is our support for the AFLNT Michael Long Learning and Leadership Centre, Make Your Mark program, which empowers Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander students through leadership, education and cultural learning opportunities. I recently had the opportunity to meet the kids from Nawadaken Academy.

It was inspiring to see their enthusiasm for learning and leadership, and a powerful reminder that by supporting education, leadership development and cultural connection, we are helping build stronger communities and supporting future generations across the Territory.

In particular, I am proud to have taken part in the Vinnies 2026 CEO Sleepout, alongside Jaco Blignaut, INPEX General Manager Onshore, Steven Hillman, Altrad Maintenance Team Lead, and Thor Nellen, Territory Instruments Chief Operating Officer, forming the Ichthys Team.

Taking part in the event provided a powerful opportunity to better understand the challenges faced by people experiencing homelessness, while helping raise vital funds for services that support some of the most vulnerable members of our community.

“It’s inspiring to see Territory leaders step forward and use their influence to make a genuine difference,” says Rob Lutter, Chief Executive Officer St Vincent de Paul Northern Territory.

“The funds raised through the Vinnies CEO Sleepout help us support people facing homelessness and hardship, while also helping build greater understanding of the challenges many Territorians experience every day.”

Richard says: “The Ichthys Team raised more than $36,000 through the generosity of our staff, family and friends, the broader community and INPEX. This outstanding result reflects the strong support for this cause and our collective commitment to making a meaningful difference.”

The power of partnership extends well beyond the workplace. Whether supporting community programs, engaging with Traditional Owners, taking part in local events or working alongside community organisations, INPEX remains focused on building trusted relationships based on mutual respect, transparency and shared outcomes.

One example of this commitment was INPEX’s support as Presenting Partner of Larrakia Nation’s NAIDOC Week in Darwin. The INPEX team were proud to support a range of events throughout the week, including the Official Opening and Flag Raising Ceremony, Danila Dilba Family Day, the JAK Ah Kit NAIDOC Golf Day, the NAIDOC Breakfast and March, and the Gala Ball.

The NAIDOC Breakfast and March is one of the week’s flagship events, bringing together thousands of people from across the Territory to celebrate the history, cultures and achievements of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples.

For INPEX, participation in the event provides an important opportunity to engage with the community, deepen cultural understanding and demonstrate our shared commitment to reconciliation and respectful relationships. The strong turnout of volunteers reflects the pride our workforce takes in supporting this important community celebration.

Held on Larrakia Country and marking 50 Years of Deadly, the week was a powerful celebration of culture, connection and community. It provided an opportunity for people across Darwin to come together, listen, learn and celebrate the enduring contributions of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples.

As a workforce involved in the community living and working in Darwin, we enjoyed many meaningful conversations and moments throughout the 2026 NAIDOC week, reinforcing the importance of working together to create positive outcomes for future generations.

Looking ahead, we remain optimistic about the Territory’s future. Through collaboration and strong partnerships with community organisations, we are contributing to opportunities that are delivering benefits for the Territory where we live and work. TQ