The Barkly Regional Deal is seeking public comment on the 2030 Barkly Economic Growth Strategy which outlines key projects, programs and proposals anticipated for the region to build a diverse economy and improve social outcomes, culture, and quality of life for Barkly residents.

The Strategy has been developed by working groups of Barkly business leaders, Aboriginal business enterprises, industry groups and community stakeholders.

The contributors felt it was important not just to think of big business, but also how any individual in the Barkly can take advantage of upcoming economic opportunities.

The vision developed by the group is uniquely inclusive – Together we are thriving and strong, so everyone in the Barkly region can make the most of opportunities from investment and growth.

The Strategy recognises the Barkly needs to be investment-ready to maximise economic growth opportunities from a $17 billion pipeline of projects expected over the next 10 years.

The resource-rich region currently has strong mining and onshore gas exploration activity progressing for critical minerals, phosphate, copper, and gold.

There is also the proposal to build the Sun Cable renewable energy project and the innovative Aqua Aerem Desert Bloom Hydrogen project.

A separate analysis of the Barkly investment portfolio by Infrastructure NT released last month predicts the creation of 1,720 new jobs during the construction phase of upcoming projects and that short-term accommodation for 1,000 people will be needed.

Tony Miles from Anyinginyi Aboriginal Corporation said it demonstrates the opportunities for industry to collaborate and work more inclusively with employers to better support local Aboriginal employment and longer-term outcomes.

The Strategy outlines that the growing scale of infrastructure and economic activity will require urgent attention to create better supply chain ecosystems through delivering the planned $216 million Tennant Creek Multi-Modal Logistic Hub.

The Strategy is open for public comment and can be accessed at https://barklyregionaldeal.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2022/07/Barkly-Economic-Growth-Strategy-1.pdf

Feedback can be made via email to barklyregionaldeal@infrastructure.gov.au until 17 August, 2022.

This article appeared in Tennant & District Times, 5 August 2022.