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The Northern Territory Government has launched a 10-year workforce development strategy to prepare for 29,000 projected new jobs, as investment in mining, energy and infrastructure increases demand for skilled workers.
The Building a Bigger, Better Workforce: Northern Territory Workforce Development Strategy 2026–2036 outlines a coordinated approach to attracting, developing and retaining workers needed to support the Territory’s long-term economic growth.
The strategy focuses on increasing workforce participation, strengthening skills and improving the lifestyle and productivity conditions that encourage workers to remain in the Territory.
Northern Territory Minister for Workforce Development Robyn Cahill said the strategy would help address growing demand across several major industries.
“The Territory is entering a period of significant transformation, with projects in resources, infrastructure, defence and energy expected to drive strong demand for workers,” Cahill said.
“A skilled and productive workforce will be fundamental to unlocking the Territory’s economic potential and this strategy sets out a practical approach to grow our workforce.”
This announcement follows after research from the Minerals Council of Australia (MCA) identified 16 advanced mining projects across the Territory, representing $6.1 billion in planned capital investment.
According to the MCA, these projects could support approximately 3200 construction jobs and 2800 operational positions, highlighting the importance of building workforce capacity before major developments commence.
A subsequent MCA report identified specialist skills shortages across mining engineering, geoscience, processing operations and environmental management.
The report also highlighted the importance of stronger education pathways, targeted worker attraction and improved housing, healthcare and childcare services to support long-term workforce retention.
The Territory Government’s latest strategy builds on these broader industry priorities, bringing together businesses, training providers and communities to support a more coordinated approach to workforce development.
“With projections of 29,000 jobs being created over the next decade, no single organisation or sector can address workforce challenges in isolation; this strategy sets out how we will work together to ensure Territorians have the skills and opportunities to participate in our economy,” Cahill said.
The workforce initiative also comes as several major mining developments progress across the Territory, where in October, Arafura Rare Earths commenced construction at its $1.6 billion Nolans project, which is expected to create more than 600 construction jobs and approximately 350 ongoing operational positions.
Meanwhile, KGL Resources approved development of its Jervois copper project, with construction expected to begin in early 2027 and up to 550 ongoing jobs anticipated once operational.
The Territory has also introduced a mining cadets program for school students, providing vocational training and industry experience to help establish future pathways into the resources sector.
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