2027 Chief Minister’s Study Tour
Shared History. Shared Future.
The Chief Minister’s Study Tour gives Northern Territory (NT) Year 9 students the chance to travel during Year 10 to Okinawa, Japan and explore our shared history, our region today and our future.
Students will learn about the impact of the second world war, and how its lessons continue to shape peace, partnerships and cooperation in the Indo-Pacific today. They will also meet young people from Japan and experience Okinawan culture firsthand.
The study tour is not just about history.
It is also an opportunity to think about the world we live in today, including Australia’s relationships with our neighbours, international cooperation, peace and security, and the role young Territorians can play in our region in the future.
The study tour returns in 2027 following a successful inaugural tour in 2026.
What the study tour includes
The 2027 study tour is expected to include an 8-day program in Okinawa, Japan during the 2027 June school holidays.
Activities will include:
- visits to important historical sites, including the Okinawa Prefectural Peace Memorial Museum, Himeyuri Peace Museum and Former Japanese Navy Underground Headquarters
- learning about the Battle of Okinawa and why it remains important today
- visiting a Japanese school and meeting local students
- experiencing Okinawan culture and traditions
- exploring the relationship between Australia and Japan
- discussions about peace, resilience and international cooperation
- opportunities to engage with regional leaders in industry, diplomacy and/or defence operating in the Indo-Pacific.
The final 2027 itinerary will be released closer to departure and may change.
Why Okinawa
Australia and Japan have a shared wartime history, but today the 2 countries are close friends and regional partners.
Okinawa provides students with an opportunity to explore both parts of that story.
By visiting places connected to conflict and remembrance, meeting Japanese students and experiencing modern Okinawa, students can consider how countries move from conflict towards friendship, cooperation and peace.
The study tour helps young Territorians understand the NT’s place in the Indo-Pacific and discover possible future study and career pathways in areas including international relations, defence, diplomacy, history, government and regional engagement.
Information for students
If you are a Year 9 student living and studying in the NT, this could be your chance to represent the Territory!
You do not need to be a history expert.
We are looking for up to 8 students who are curious about the world, willing to learn, interested in meeting new people and able to think about how the past connects with the challenges and opportunities of today.
Entries for the 2027 study tour are now open and close on 19 October 2026.
Read more about the additional information for students.
For more information on how to apply, read the student handbook PDF (4.4 MB) and talent release authorisation form DOCX (59.6 KB).
To submit your entry online, go to Have Your Say website.
Information for parents and teachers
The Chief Minister’s Study Tour is an educational program for NT Year 9 students that combines history, cultural exchange, international engagement and personal development.
The 2027 program is expected to involve an 8-day visit to Okinawa, Japan.
Students will take part in a structured program of historical, cultural and educational activities designed to broaden their understanding of Australia’s relationship with Japan and the wider Indo-Pacific region.
Read more about the additional information for parents and teachers.
About the 2026 study tour
The first Chief Minister’s Study Tour travelled to Okinawa from 20 to 28 June 2026.
Seven NT students were selected from 43 entries and participated in an 8-day program of historical, cultural and educational activities.
The program coincided with Okinawa Memorial Day commemorations and included visits to significant wartime and memorial sites, cultural experiences and a school exchange with Naha International School.
The 2026 study tour was also recognised by the Australian Embassy in Japan as an official event marking the 50th anniversary of the Basic Treaty of Friendship and Cooperation between Australia and Japan.
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“Absolutely go for it, apply as you never know if you will get accepted. It's an amazing opportunity! Just go for it, don't be afraid of stepping out.” - Esther Stark
“Don’t be afraid to try new things, make friends with the people on your trip and stay in contact, learn a little bit of the history of the battle of Okinawa before going and knowing a few simple Japanese phrases.” – Sophia Griffin
“It was an incredible educational experience. Stepping outside the classroom allowed me to engage with history and culture on a deeply personal level, completely shifting how I view global issues and my own field of study. A piece of advice I would give to future participants is to totally give this opportunity a go.” – Tallula Van Der Mark
“You have been given an amazing opportunity. Do not sit inside your comfort zone and waste it, experience new things, try new flavours understand somebody else's view; that's what you’re here to do.” – Jack McDonald
“To bring lots of money as you have plenty of places to spend it, make friends with the people you meet.” – Zaharias Koulakis
“Make the most of the trip, and every opportunity you get. Don't be afraid to try new things and stay organised (some days can be very busy) and get enough rest. Take every chance to learn from the people you meet and ask questions whenever you can. This trip will be one of the most rewarding experiences of your school years, so make the most of it, you will cherish these memories forever.” - Ramneet Gill
“Something that really stood out to me was seeing the victims of the war displayed in the museums, Each person had a photo, a short description, and their dreams and goals. It reminded me that every person has hopes and dreams just like we do – they were so much more than just a number on a page. If you’re thinking about applying for an opportunity like this, do it! It’s normal to feel scared and anxious, but don’t let that stop you. It could be the best decision you ever made.” - Ruby Prime
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The program featured an educational visit to the Kadena Air Base exhibition room.
The students visited Kadena Airbase Observation deck and watched military aircrafts taking off.
Ryukyu Village where students had opportunity to wear traditional Ryukyuan clothing and walk through the village to experience what life may've been like for villagers in the past.
Shimuku Gama Cave Tour.
Shimuku Gama Cave Tour.
Shimuku Gama Cave Tour.
Tour group at entrance to Shuri Castle.
Okinawa Memorial Day Ceremony, paying respects at the memorial stones at Peace Memorial Park.
Group photo at Peace Memorial Park at the Okinawa Memorial Day ceremony.
School group at Churaumi Aquarium.
Group photo at Marine Logistics Group, Camp Kinser.
Exchange of gift between Simon Kubota (chaperone) and Ambassador Kiya.
Shikkui Shisa colouring experience.
Engagement with students from Naha International High School.
Gift exchange with students from Naha International High School.
Entering the Former Navy HQ caves.
Learning about the Former Navy HQ caves.
Students immersed themselves in Okinawan history at Ryukyu Village, wearing traditional dress to experience life as the villagers once lived.