Business news from across the Northern Territory: The latest highlights include the NT securing rights to host next year’s G’Day Australia tourism trade event in the Build-Up, new fruit fly protocols facilitating unrestricted mango movement between the NT and WA, SunCable downgrading its renewable project due to funding issues, and Pathfinders’ new Darwin office opening. Also making resource news, Tivan obtaining a mineral exploration agreement for the Sandover Fluorite Project.

Economy

NT secures hosting rights for next year’s G’day Australia trade event

In October 2026, the Northern Territory will host G’Day Australia, a significant international tourism trade event, welcoming over 600 delegates and travel agents. This event is expected to be the largest in the region, generating more than $3 million in direct spending during Darwin’s Build-Up season.

The event will feature 300 Aussie specialist travel agents from various markets, leading to an anticipated $30 million boost in holiday sales for Australia post-event. The gathering will allow international agents to engage with Australian tourism providers, showcasing the Territory’s unique attractions, including its natural landscapes and cultural heritage.

Agriculture

New fruit fly protocols to facilitate unrestricted mango movement between NT and WA

Northern Territory mangoes have regained uninterrupted access to Western Australia thanks to a new fruit fly management protocol following previous market suspensions due to fruit fly concerns, the ABC reported this week. This permanent agreement is a significant advancement for farmers before the upcoming mango harvest.

The NT is renowned for producing half of Australia’s mangoes, with four specific varieties approved for shipment to WA—Honey Gold, R2E2, Calypso, and Kensington Pride. Despite past compliance issues and treatment changes, growers are optimistic about the future of their mango exports. The 2024-25 season is projected to yield 3.9 million trays, with a strong workforce supporting the industry.

Business

SunCable downgrades renewable project due to funding issues

Billionaire Mike Cannon-Brookes is reducing his stake in the $40 billion SunCable renewable energy project to up to 50 per cent due to funding challenges. SunCable aims to export solar energy to Singapore via a 4,200km subsea cable and has adjusted its production goals from 20 GW to approximately 6 GW.

The project, which recently regained Major Project Status from the Federal Government, is seeking federal funding and has had difficulty attracting external investors. Additionally, the company is facing significant executive turnover, including the departure of key leadership figures. Recent competition from Singapore’s new electricity export licenses has further complicated the project’s prospects.

Pathfinders launches Darwin Office with community open house, Aboriginal Birth Certificate program

Pathfinders, a not-for-profit organisation, has opened its first office in Darwin at 2D/17 University Drive, Palmerston, on August 12. This expansion enhances support for vulnerable children, young people, and families. A National Aboriginal Birth Certificate Program on August 13 offered free birth certificates to Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people, with support by the NT Government, in an effort to “break down barriers to accessing employment and essential services such as healthcare, education, and housing”.

Pathfinders provides various services, including crisis accommodation, youth support, and assistance with social challenges like domestic violence and mental health.

Resources

Tivan obtains mineral exploration agreement for Sandover Fluorite Project

Tivan has signed a mineral exploration deed for its Sandover fluorite project in the NT, marking its first agreement with the Central Land Council (CLC). This deed outlines how exploration activities will respect traditional owners’ rights and cultural heritage. Located about 230 km northeast of Alice Springs, Sandover’s acquisition was completed in March.

Tivan has received funding through the Territory Government’s Geophysics and Drilling Collaborations program, with drilling expected to start in October, pending regulatory approvals. Fluorine, derived from fluorite, was added to Australia’s critical minerals list in December 2023.