Hundreds of Territorians – from the Chief Minister to young entrepreneurs – demonstrated that the Northern Territory is a vibrant, growing part of Australia.

The annual Facing North event showcases Northern Australia to Members of Parliament and other key decision makers with the aim of accelerating development of the region. It was held in the Great Hall of Parliament House on Monday 9 September.

More than 400 people attended the event, which is a collaboration between the Darwin Major Business Group and Northern Territory Government.

The collaboration between Government and private enterprise shows Territorians are working together to accelerate development of the North. Territorians took a strong message to Canberra, including the importance of Northern Australia and the Northern Territory to the future prosperity and security of the country, and the economic opportunities presented by the NT’s close proximity to South-East Asia and China.

Darwin Major Business Group representative Michael Bridge described the annual event, now in its third year, as a key opportunity to engage nationally. “The event aims to focus the attention of members of Federal Parliament on the strategic importance of developing the North and what we can offer the Australian economy,” he says.

His sentiment is shared by Northern Territory Chief Minister Michael Gunner who describes Northern Australia and the Northern Territory as critical to the future prosperity and security of the Nation.

“Facing North is a strong demonstration of how Territory business, industry and government are working together to accelerate development of the North,” he says. There are key opportunities in our proximity to South-East Asia and China, and the benefits this can bring to the Territory and the broader national economy. The Northern Territory has an incredibly bright economic future within reach. This is why the Territory Government is investing in job-creating infrastructure right across the Territory. This is why we are partnering with local business to deliver game-changing projects. And this is why we are investing in not just our traditional industries of tourism, agriculture and mining – but creating new industries such as a space base, renewables and the ship lift.”

As part of the event, Territory produce, products and initiatives are also showcased.

It’s a massive logistical effort that saw more than 776 kilograms of Northern Territory produce and four pallets of gift bag items transported to Australia’s capital for the event. TQ