Migration policy needs to support Territory growth

Migration policy must work for the Territory we need to build.

In a published letter, Darwin Major Business Group Chair Sam Jeffries makes the case for national migration settings that recognise the Northern Territory’s distinct economic, workforce and population needs.

The Territory needs people to deliver essential services, sustain our communities and support long-term economic growth. Settings designed to address pressures in our largest cities must also recognise those needs.

Training and employing Territorians must remain central. Skilled migration complements that effort, helping address workforce gaps while we strengthen local capability.

DMBG urges all political parties to support skilled-worker pathways, working-holiday arrangements that meet regional needs, and opportunities for international graduates to build their futures here.

This matters across our economy, from tourism and construction to aged care and other essential services.

Growing our population also requires coordinated investment in housing, infrastructure and services. Planning must be grounded in realistic workforce demand and project timing, recognising that every announced investment will not necessarily proceed.

The goal is lasting local jobs, stronger communities and a Territory where people choose to build their lives.