The Defence Strategic Review released this week by the Federal Labor Government shows that the Territory will again miss out on opportunities in the industry.
It is unclear if the $3.8 billion announcement today is part of the $8 billion promised by the previous Federal Government or exactly how much is earmarked for the Territory.
Opposition Leader Lia Finocchiaro said that the Fyles Labor Government’s destruction of confidence in doing business in the Northern Territory and their inaction on supply chain security is seeing work that could be done here sent interstate.
The review points to the risk and insecurity of our supply routes as a problem when it comes to National Security.
“Supply chain issues are something we feel the impacts of often here in the Territory, yet despite calls for better road and rail infrastructure, we’ve seen no improvements under Natasha Fyles,” she said.
“Labor’s lack of experience to develop a long term plan to shore up these freight routes was confirmed last year when Labor Treasurer Eva Lawler’s answer to supply chain collapse was simply “I don’t control the weather”.
“We should have a supercharged Defence industry here that is able to provide for a strong local economy and long term secure jobs for Territorians. Unfortunately again, we’re missing out to the likes of Adelaide and Townsville.
“Not investing in our manufacturing capabilities and not backing local businesses has a direct result when it comes to getting the high value contracts that Defence can provide.
“To make matters worse the new helicopter base slated for Townsville could see the transfer of over 300 defence families out of Palmerston and Greater Darwin. Labor’s own Federal Minister for Defence Industry today on ABC radio confirmed there would be disruption to the Darwin area.
“Under Labor the economy is going backwards, people are leaving and Natasha Fyles doesn’t have the gumption to stand up for the Territory to get a better deal.” Mrs Finocchiaro said.
ENDS