Why the NT

Strategic geography

The Northern Territory’s unique geography makes it a strategic economic and defence asset at the crossroads of the Indo-Pacific. As the highest populated region on Australia’s north coast, the Territory boasts a number of deep-water ports; with regular and reliable air, rail and road links to the rest of country.

World class training hub

The Territory is growing in its reputation as a world-class training hub due to its unique facilities with unmatched size and airspace, extremely low population density and electromagnetic signature. The Territory hosts a vast network of training ranges across land, air and sea that are superior to any in the Indo-Pacific region. Its proximity to Asia provides a strategic advantage, making it an ideal location for the joint exercises and training with regional partners.

The Territory regularly hosts a number Australia’s large multilateral exercises including Exercise Pitch Black, Exercise Kakadu and Exercise Talisman Sabre. These demonstrate the capability of the Territory comprehensive and realistic training hub for the Australian Defence Force and its allies.

Established supply chains and sustainment industry

Industry clusters in Darwin, Katherine and Alice Springs enjoy supply chain access, proven by the established transportation and logistics network across northern Australia. The Territory has a strong track record of supporting industry and logistics requirements of the mining, agriculture and energy industries. Industry in the Territory has a history of providing essential sustainment activities for Defence, including the maintenance of base infrastructure, aircraft, naval vessels and vehicles.

Historic relationship

The Territory has had a long relationship with the Australian Defence Force dating back to the Second World War. The bombing of Darwin on February 19, 1942 by Japanese forces was the largest ever attack on Australian soil, and the event holds a lingering significance to the city and its residents. Since then Darwin has evolved into a vital hub for Australia’s defence forces, with bases of all services represented within the city’s urban area. Defence personnel are a recognised and respected part of the social fabric of the Territory.