The Hon. Lia Finocchiaro, Chief Minister and Minister for Defence NT, Media Release, 28 April 2026

The Finocchiaro CLP Government has launched the Northern Territory Defence Strategy 2026 as Defence Week begins in Darwin.

Announced today during a keynote address at the Northern Australia Defence Summit, Chief Minister and Minister for Defence NT Lia Finocchiaro outlined the five key priorities: Maritime sustainment, Army’s Littoral Pivot, Northern Theatre Logistics, Northern Basing and Ranges and Innovation, Test and Evaluation.

Chief Minister Lia Finocchiaro said the Northern Territory was strategically placed to deliver for the nation.

“The Territory has everything Australia needs to meet the challenges ahead.

“We are the most logical location from which to base, train, project and sustain forces in the north of Australia. We are the gateway to the Info-Pacific and South-East Asia,” Mrs Finocchiaro said.

“Our Northern Marine Complex, one of the most significant economic development projects in the Territory’s history, is being progressed to establish the Top End as a strategic hub for Defence and maritime industry”

This year’s theme for NT Defence Week 2026, “Northern Capability, National Defence,” highlights how the Territory’s strategic location, critical infrastructure and growing industry capability are helping to strengthen Australia’s defence posture and long-term resilience.

The week-long program brings together defence leaders, industry experts and strategic partners from across Australia and around the world, creating opportunities to connect, share insights and help shape the future of Defence in Northern Australia.

Chief Minister Lia Finocchiaro said the Territory must continue building a more forward-positioned, agile and responsive defence posture for our nation.

“I look forward to engaging with key Defence leaders during Defence Week and showcasing just how important the Territory is to Australia’s future security and prosperity.”

“Now is the time to move forward, enhance our collaboration, make the investments required and put the capability where it needs to be.

“Doing so strengthens Australia’s self-reliance by ensuring critical military capability can be generated, sustained and regenerated from Australia, even under pressure.

The Northern Territory Defence Strategy 2026 is now available online.