DEFENCE STRATEGY NORTHERN TERRITORY …...GRADUATES OF THE DEFENCE INDIGENOUS DEVELOPMENT PROGRAM (BATCHELOR) FRONT COVER: HMAS VAMPIRE, THE FIRST ALL-WELDED HULL TO BE CONSTRUCTED

DEFENCE STRATEGY NORTHERN TERRITORY

BEYOND 2015 EXPANDING OUR ROLE AND CAPABILITY IN DEFENCE AND NATIONAL SECURITY

GRADUATES OF THE DEFENCE INDIGENOUS DEVELOPMENT PROGRAM (BATCHELOR)

FRONT COVER: HMAS VAMPIRE, THE FIRST ALL-WELDED HULL TO BE CONSTRUCTED IN AUSTRALIA SERVED FROM 1959-1986 AND IS NOW IN THE AUSTRALIAN NATIONAL MARITIME MUSEUM. MOTTO: LET US BE DARING

CONTENTSCHIEF MINISTER’S MESSAGE 2

DEFENCE AND NATIONAL SECURITY FOOTPRINT 4

DEFENCE IN THE NORTHERN TERRITORY 5

DEFENCE SUPPORT INDUSTRY 7

STAKEHOLDERS 8

TARGETS FOR GROWTH 10

Prosperous Northern Territory Economy 11

Sustainable Defence Industry Capability 12

Enhanced National Security 13

US Force Posture Initiative 14

A Vibrant Community 15

Regional Engagement Hub 16

Secure Borders 17

Nation Building Infrastructure 18

REALISING DEFENCE AND BUSINESS SYNERGIES 20

GATEWAY TO THE ASIA PACIFIC 21

LIFESTYLE AND CULTURAL EXPERIENCE 22

RESEARCH AND DEVELOPMENT 23

IMPLEMENTATION 24

DEFENCE – PART OF OUR COMMUNITY 25

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The Northern Territory enjoys a strong relationship with the Australian Defence Force and visiting foreign forces as successive Northern Territory Governments have understood the importance of the Defence presence in Northern Australia.

With the large Defence presence in the Territory, an increasing level of Defence exercises and activity, growing US Marine Corps rotations and perceived opportunities ahead, this government aims to maximise the economic benefits for the Territory by strengthening our collaboration with Defence and developing strategic partnerships with the Defence industry.

Developed in consultation with key stakeholders, Defence Strategy Northern Territory Beyond 2015: Expanding our role and capability in defence and national security outlines a new approach to supporting Defence and capturing economic opportunities.

The strategy covers eight themes and focuses on capitalising on the many advantages the Northern Territory has to offer including our geographic location, abundant open space for basing, training and exercises, a capable industry, a welcoming community, a supportive government and the quality of lifestyle.

The Territory is well positioned to attract Defence investment with our strong economy steadily expanding through growing investment and large scale projects.

This government is also looking, in partnership with the Australian Government, for opportunities to develop nation-building infrastructure which could also benefit Defence.

CHIEF MINISTER’S MESSAGE

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The Northern Territory has long been viewed as a forward operating base for Australia’s military deployments and operations into the region but increasing trade globalisation and geostrategic shifts among major powers have changed the dynamics. This government recognises this new strategic reality where greater international partnerships are required to create a stronger collective security framework.

The US focus on the Asia Pacific region including the US Force Posture Initiative, Australia’s and the Northern Territory’s maturing diplomatic engagement with Asia, the increasing significance of border surveillance and protection, and the Federal Government’s White Paper on Developing Northern Australia, highlight the unique circumstances of the Northern Territory.

I thank all those who have contributed to the development of this strategy and look forward to your support and participation in its implementation.

Adam Giles Chief Minister

Northern Territory Government

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THE COALITION FLEET ON EXERCISE KAKADU 2014 COME TOGETHER IN THE NORTH AUSTRALIAN EXERCISE AREA OFF THE COAST OF DARWIN, NORTHERN TERRITORY.

Defence is a significant stakeholder in the development of Northern Australia and, as a result, has a part to play in the broader nation-building exercise that will deliver prosperity and other benefits for all of Australia, thus contributing to the essential economic foundation of our long term national security.

Most recently, the Australian Government’s approach to guaranteeing our border security, and the formation of the Australian Border Force, have added an additional dimension to the potential role of the Northern Territory in the defence and security posture of Australia.

Trade globalisation and the resulting gravitational pull between Australia and Asia have shifted the regional dynamics, forcing a reconsideration of Darwin and the Northern Territory by Defence as a significant strategic location. The Northern Territory is no longer near Asia; it is of Asia.

Successive white papers have identified the requirement of a defence presence in Northern Australia. Growing this presence, with supporting infrastructure and logistic capacity to develop a hub of regional engagement, is the logical next step.

Australia’s national security future in and with our near neighbourhood depends not only on such fresh thinking – but also on converting strategy and policy into concrete actions.

At a geostrategic level, much is changing today that increases the importance of the Northern Territory in Australia’s national defence. From the 1987 Defence White Paper the NT was seen as the gateway to Australia and therefore a place which needed to be defended. The Northern Territory’s importance to defence has not diminished.

With greater connectivity to Asia on a number of levels, economically and politically, the Northern Territory is evolving to become a focal point as a regional defence hub.

Traditional concepts of Defence and National Security, along with the elements of national power involved, are transforming. The concept of Defence in Australia’s current regional strategic reality involves more than ADF personnel and equipment. The reality is stronger international relationships are required with our northern neighbours. This will play an even more important role into the next century.

Australia’s security interests are converging with Asia. This is supported by an expanded US military presence in northern Australia. This presence is viewed positively by the federal government and will enhance the development of international relationships.

A rotating USMC presence in Darwin, along with greater use of northern Australian training areas by US troops, will test the ability for the ADF and regional partners to sustain operations in the Asia Pacific to provide humanitarian support and regional stability. Further, this will contribute to providing better maritime domain awareness in the Asia Pacific and approaches to the vital Malacca Straits. Ultimately stability in the Asia Pacific will lead to greater economic confidence and increasing trade opportunities, in what is an increasingly interconnected world.

DEFENCE AND NATIONAL SECURITY FOOTPRINT

THE NORTHERN TERRITORY, TRADITIONALLY THE GATE WAY TO THE ASIA PACIFIC, IS BECOMING A REGIONAL ENGAGEMENT HUB.

AN AUSTRALIAN ARMY SOLDIER MARCHES DURING THE ANZAC

DAY NATIONAL CEREMONY

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DEFENCE IN THE NORTHERN TERRITORYThere has been a long-standing relationship between the Australian Defence Force and Northern Australia. Defence is a significant contributor to the Northern Territory economy and is likely to remain so for decades to come. The economic contribution of Defence to the Northern Territory economy is significant in terms of economic inputs. Inflation-adjusted Defence expenditure in the Territory was $1.5 billion in 2013-14, equivalent to 6.9% per cent of the Territory’s gross state product.

Across Army, Navy and Air Force, the Northern Territory is home to 8.2 percent of Australia’s permanent Defence personnel at approximately 4700 personnel. Along with their families, they account for more than six percent of the Northern Territory’s population or approximately 14000 people. Specifically in Katherine RAAF families account for some 25 percent of the population.

A growing number of Defence platforms are now based in the Northern Territory; one of Australia’s three Combat Brigades, the Army’s only Armed Reconnaissance Helicopter (ARH) Regiment and seventy percent of Australia’s Armidale Class Patrol Boats are based in Darwin while a squadron of F/A-18 Hornets, soon to be replaced by F35 Lightning Joint Strike Fighters, train and operate out of RAAF Base Tindal. In addition, the Northern Territory hosts expansive training areas including the Bradshaw Field Training Area, Delamere Air Weapons Range and North Australia Exercise Area.

DEFENCE EXPENDITURE IN THE TERRITORY

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1.2

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SALARIES OPERATIONAL INVESTMENT (INCLUDES WEAPONS)

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‘04 ‘05 ‘06 ‘07 ‘08 ‘09 ‘10 ‘11 ‘12 ‘13 ‘14

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500 km

1000 km

2000 km

6000

km

5000

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4000

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Port Moresby

Cairns

Brisbane

SydneyCanberra

Melbourne

Hobart

Adelaide

Perth

Darwin

Alice Springs

Tennant Creek

KatherineNhulunbuy

Dili

Denpasar

Jakarta

Singapore

Kuala Lumpur

Bandar Seri Begawan

Bangkok

HanoiHong Kong

Manila

Taipei

Tokyo

Seoul

Beijing

Shanghai

Broome

Ho Chi Minh City

THE NORTHERN TERRITORY’S PROXIMITY TO ASIATHE US RE-EMPHASIS ON THE ASIA PACIFIC REGION, AUSTRALIA’S AND THE NORTHERN TERRITORY’S MATURING ENGAGEMENT WITH ASIA, THE INCREASING SIGNIFICANCE OF BORDER SURVEILLANCE AND PROTECTION, AND THE FEDERAL GOVERNMENT’S INTENTION TO DEVELOP AUSTRALIA’S NORTH, HIGHLIGHT THE UNIQUE STRATEGIC LOCATION AND CIRCUMSTANCES OF THE NORTHERN TERRITORY.

Looking to the future it is important to maintain the ability for Defence to sustain, maintain and project the ADF and our allies in the Asia Pacific Region. Not just for security but also to provide humanitarian support when called for. This requires something more than a mere presence. This requires infrastructure and industrial capacity to be in place and be well versed in supporting Defence. The Northern Territory already has a strong industrial capability built on supporting a range of sectors including the Defence and resources sectors.

Defence should not underestimate how important its procurement policies are in allowing the NT’s defence industry to reach a level of maturity that would be desirable to support future Defence operations.

To achieve, this Defence procurement policy needs to take a broader view and focus on more than just dealing with the prime defence contractors. Defence needs to take

an active role in the development of policy to ensure the sustainability of its second and third tier Defence contractors. The Northern Territory has a number of second and third tier Defence contractors who provide a significant contribution to Defence preparedness.

With a number of developing industries such as an expanding cruise ship industry and a growing resources sector on and off shore, Defence has an opportunity to capitalise on existing local capacity for heavy engineering, electrical and control systems skills and logistics networks which are better postured to support Defence sustainment, maintenance and preparedness into the future. This has the potential to provide significant cost savings for Defence as opposed to shifting major platforms south for maintenance and sustainment activities.

In future years, a maturing oil and gas industry and an increasing agriculture export market will add to this growth. The Northern Territory

has the capacity to become a significant global trading node over the next 50 years. Accordingly Australia, as an island continent, requires secure access to the maritime trade routes to our major trading partners. For the NT, these predominantly reside in Asia. Instability in the Asia Pacific would have a detrimental impact on Australia’s terms of trade. Due to the NT’s reliance on export markets in oil and gas and agriculture, this effect would be significantly more prominent than the southern states.

DEFENCE SUPPORT INDUSTRY

MEMBERS OF 8/12 REGIMENT, BASED AT 1ST BRIGADE’S ROBERTSON BARRACKS DARWIN PARTICIPATE IN A MILITARY RE-ENACTMENT FOR BOMBING OF DARWIN.

A RICH HISTORY OF DEFENCE PRESENCE In 1824 the British established Fort Dundas on Melville Island. A small flotilla led by HMS Tamar transported Royal Marines, soldiers of the 3rd Regiment, sailors and civilians to the island. This lasted only three years and was followed by Fort Wellington in Raffles Bay which lasted two years. In 1838 the military were essential to a new settlement at Port Essington which was established due to a fear that either the French or Americans would try to establish a foothold in the north of the continent. One hundred years later the federal Government announced plans to build up military assets in Darwin. Work began on base facilities, the Darwin Mobile Infantry Force was raised, 300 men were stationed in Darwin, and the Royal Australian Air Force brought a composite squadron to the civil airfield and began to build a new base about six kilometres from the city.

THE NORTHERN TERRITORY ALREADY HAS A STRONG INDUSTRIAL CAPABILITY BUILT ON SUPPORTING A RANGE OF SECTORS INCLUDING THE DEFENCE AND RESOURCES SECTORS.

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Eight key stakeholder groups have been identified, each with a unique set of requirements. Of key importance to all groups is increased communication between them on the ongoing direction of the Defence industry in the NT. Access to information and strategic planning for the development of a strong Defence presence and support industry feature heavily across all group’s needs.

Each group will benefit differently from the strategy, but each group also has a role to play to ensure its successful implementation. The vision for the Northern Territory can only be achieved with each group supporting the strategy and taking responsibility for their role in its implementation.

STAKEHOLDERS

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Stakeholders across Defence, defence industry and community were invited to provide input to Defence Strategy Northern Territory Beyond 2015. The views, needs and priorities expressed by stakeholders have been coalesced into eight strategic themes. All the activities involved in the implementation of the strategy can be aligned under one or more of the themes. Each of the stakeholder groups will likely have different priorities and take a different journey as they work towards the achievement of the vision for Defence in the Northern Territory.

The eight themes which form the strategy are accompanied by a list of proposed actions to be undertaken. To achieve the desired outcome stakeholders may work independently or collectively toward an agreed goal. Many actions are applicable across a number of themes.

THE EIGHT THEMES AND RELATED ACTIONS WHICH ARE DETAILED IN THE FOLLOWING PAGES ARE:Prosperous Northern Territory EconomySustainable Defence Industry CapabilityEnhanced National SecurityUS Force Posture InitiativeA Vibrant CommunityRegional Engagement HubSecure BordersNation Building Infrastructure

TARGETS FOR GROWTHVISION: A CAPABLE AND PROFITABLE INDUSTRY, CONTEMPORARY INFRASTRUCTURE AND SUPPORTIVE COMMUNITY, CONTRIBUTING TO DEFENCE CAPABILITY AND THE TERRITORY ECONOMY.

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MR KEVIN WALLACE, A MEMBER OF THE TITJIKALA COMMUNITY, TEMPERS A COLD CHISEL AS PART OF HIS TRAINING IN CERTIFICATE ONE IN RURAL OPERATIONS AT THE MEN’S WORKSHOP DURING THE ARMY COMMUNITY ASSISTANCE PROGRAMME 2015 AT TITJIKALA, NORTHERN TERRITORY.

PROSPEROUS NORTHERN TERRITORY ECONOMY

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STRATEGIC THEME

With an environment conducive to business, supported by a consistent regulatory framework and extensive infrastructure, prime contractors are encouraged to increase their permanent footprint in the Northern Territory. This affords more opportunities for Northern Territory SMEs to plan and grow their involvement in the Defence industry.

A growing Defence industrial base plays a significant role in the Northern Territory’s steadily expanding economy, commensurate with the size and importance of Defence in the Northern Territory.

Increased Defence activity in the region and the Federal Government commitment to growing northern Australia provide opportunity to increase the level of industry engagement creating economic growth, business development and employment.

OUR PLAN OF ACTION1. Establish a Strategic Defence Advisory Board.

2. Attract new defence capability to the Northern Territory to increase the defence population.

3. Encourage a greater prime contractor presence in the Northern Territory where there is a flow on benefit to SMEs.

BLACKHAWK HELICOPTER

The growth of the Northern Territory’s permanent Defence industrial base is a national asset, ensuring Australia’s capacity to provide long term, sustainable support to our Defence and security presence and operations in Northern Australia. As in the past, with contingencies like East Timor and Aceh, offshore deployments can also be readily and reliably supported from the Northern Territory. Darwin provides, among other advantages, a maritime industrial alternative to the distant options provided in Western Australia and Singapore. Improved engagement between Northern Territory small and medium enterprises, Defence and Defence prime contractors and the development of dual purpose and multi user infrastructure are identified needs to developing industry capability and supporting the preparedness of the ADF.

OUR PLAN OF ACTION1. Gain industry support and commitment to the strategy.

2. Undertake a skills audit to identify future capability and capacity requirements and develop a plan to address any gaps.

3. Promote Northern Territory capability and capacity to support Defence related contracts to Defence and prime contractors.

4. Encourage prime contractors to develop long term supplier arrangements with SMEs.

SUSTAINABLE DEFENCE INDUSTRY CAPABILITY

Major oil and gas projectsNorthern Territory industry has a strong track record of supporting and delivering major projects.

In 2008, INPEX and its then sole joint venture partner Total announced Darwin as the preferred location for the onshore processing facilities of its Ichthys LNG Project.

Currently under construction and ranked among the most significant oil and gas projects in the world, the INPEX-operated Project stands as one of the country’s most exciting and challenging developments.

When operational, the Ichthys LNG Project is expected to produce 8.4 million tonnes of LNG and 1.6 million tonnes of LPG per annum, along with approximately 100,000 barrels of condensate per day at peak.

The Project includes massive onshore processing facilities at Bladin Point [pictured], some of the world’s biggest and most advanced offshore facilities (in the remote Browse Basin), and an 889 kilometre pipeline to unite them.

In partnership with the Northern Territory, the Project is already delivering considerable benefits, including new business opportunities, major new and improved infrastructure and expanded economic, employment and training outcomes that will continue for generations.

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STRATEGIC THEME

The security of the Northern Territory, in particular the significant onshore and offshore critical infrastructure, is crucial to the security of Australia. The synergies of regular training and exercising with US Pacific Command elements and other regional armed forces enhances the combat capability of ADF units based in the Northern Territory and others from southern commands which exercise in expansive, state-of-the-art ranges. The ADF and other government agencies, such as the Australian Border Force, become more acquainted with each other’s systems and procedures, providing enhanced national security cooperation across Northern Australia. The increased activity in northern Australia provides opportunity for further industry development which in turn provides increased support capability to Defence and other industry sectors.

OUR PLAN OF ACTION1. Identify and seek to address the stress points in the logistics

supply chain that adversely impact the Defence Sector in the Northern Territory.

2. Promote the Defence Support Hub and expand occupancy linking SME’s, prime contractors and Defence.

3. Support SMEs to contract with Defence and prime contractors.

ENHANCED NATIONAL SECURITY

International Maritime ExercisesExercise KAKADU is the Royal Australian Navy’s premier maritime warfare exercise and occurs biennially. In 2014 over 1,200 people, eight warships and 26 aircraft from throughout the Asia Pacific and Indian Ocean regions participated.

Participants conducted maritime exercises and cultural exchanges in Darwin for the first week of the exercise, then headed to sea for a range of activities.

Solid naval cooperation between coalition nations enables a secure and stable maritime environment, ultimately leading to safety, trust, peace and prosperity on the high seas for all.

Many countries participated with warships and aircraft including Australia, Japan, the Philippines, Pakistan and New Zealand. Representatives from Bangladesh, Cambodia, Malaysia, Papua New Guinea, Republic of Korea, Singapore, Thailand, Timor Leste, Tonga and Vanuatu also take part.

PHILIPPINE NAVY SHIP BRP RAMON ALCARAZ, HMAS STUART AND HMAS SYDNEY ALONGSIDE DARWIN PORT.

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STRATEGIC THEME

As the US Marine Corps troop rotation increase numbers over time, the Northern Territory is keen to maintain strong relationships and a safe social environment. This encourages US commanders and planners in the Indo-Pacific to look to the Northern Territory as a training ground of choice, particularly for large-scale exercises requiring vast areas for manoeuvre and secure testing of sophisticated platforms. US fleets make increasing use of the facilities in Darwin port and additional force elements come to use the expansive world class Northern Territory training areas. Demands for new infrastructure to support the US Force Posture Initiative may create opportunities for joint use infrastructure development which can benefit the Northern Territory economy and community.

OUR PLAN OF ACTION1. Develop methods of communication with US Military to engage

them in Northern Territory tourism, hospitality, retail and other leisure activities.

2. Engage with Australian Defence Force and US Military to encourage the prepositioning and maintenance of military and humanitarian aid and disaster response equipment by industry in the Northern Territory.

3. Promote the Defence Support Hub as a solution for prepositioning and maintenance of military and humanitarian aid equipment.

US FORCE POSTURE INITIATIVE

Training AreasThe Northern Territory has an abundance of space for the development of air, maritime and land training areas. With a growing focus on amphibious operations, there are a number of opportunities to develop amphibious training areas. Already home to substantial ADF training areas, the Northern Territory has large areas unrestricted by urban development available for the development of state of the art training areas making it attractive to foreign and Australian defence forces.

Frequent training with our coalition partners and regional neighbours provides opportunities to work together, develop common understanding and breakdown cultural divides. The development of new training areas can strengthen relationships and create opportunity for a broad range of local industries.

Bradshaw Field Training AreaThe NT has some of the largest land manoeuvre training areas in the world. Australian Army soldiers from 1st Brigade join forces with United States Marines annually at Bradshaw Field Training Area in the Northern Territory. Frequent exercising tests interoperability, command and control, manoeuvre and logistic support. Frequent training activities across the Territory also tests commercial logistic capacity to support military training. This translates to business opportunities and jobs for Territorians.

UNITED STATES MARINE CORPS PATROL, WAITS FOR A CH-53E SUPER STALLION HELICOPTER TO LAND IN THE BRADSHAW TRAINING AREA, NORTHERN TERRITORY, TO EVACUATE A ‘CASUALTY’ DURING EXERCISE KOOLENDONG.

TWO US MARINE MV-22 OSPREYS TAKE OFF FROM DARWIN AIRPORT SUPPORTING EXERCISES IN BRADSHAW FIELD TRAINING AREA.

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STRATEGIC THEME

Economic prosperity and expanded employment opportunities create a denser Northern Territory demography and greater economies of scale, extending the Territory’s vibrant, family-orientated educational, health and recreational services. Developing road, rail and air infrastructure draws Australia’s denser population centers closer to the Northern Territory. Defence families, who have experienced the unique lifestyle in the Territory, increasingly choose the freedom and security of a Northern Territory lifestyle as a permanent way of life. Defence families continue to make a valuable contribution to the community and economy of the Northern Territory.

OUR PLAN OF ACTION1. Create positive perceptions of the Northern Territory as a place to do

business and a lifestyle location of choice for Defence families.

2. Engage with Australian and US Defence personnel and local industry, primarily tourism, hospitality and retail sectors, to investigate the practicality of a Defence Loyalty Program.

3. Encourage Defence engagement with community groups to increase mutual understanding of the contribution each makes to the Northern Territory economy and community.

4. Engage with Veterans and Veterans organisations to facilitate a supportive environment.

A VIBRANT COMMUNITY

A strong vibrant community supporting DefenceThe defence community is a major part of the Northern Territory community. Over 30% of the defence population, exceeding 14000 people, post in and out of the Territory each year. It is important that the defence population integrate well into the community when they come to the Territory. All Territorians, including defence families, need to have access to quality early learning, schools and health care options. The NT Government will continue to work with Defence People Group, Defence Housing Australia and The Defence Community Organisation, along with the Services, to ensure our Defence population are well informed about the opportunities life in the Northern Territory has to offer.

Both serving personnel and veterans are an important part of the Territory community. It is important that Northern Territory veterans are well supported. Ensuring the community understands the contribution our veterans have made, Australia and the Northern Territory’s wartime history and the significance of national events such as Anzac Day, the Bombing of Darwin, Remembrance Day and Vietnam Veterans’ Day will help to form a strong connection.

COMMANDER OF THE 1ST BRIGADE, AUSTRALIAN ARMY OFFICER BRIGADIER

MICK RYAN LEADS THE DEFENCE CONTINGENT ON THE ANZAC DAY MARCH

THROUGH THE DARWIN CITY.

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STRATEGIC THEME

Military inventories across the Indo-Pacific are becoming increasingly sophisticated, requiring the kinds of expansive range facilities available across the Northern Territory. Training and education become important adjuncts to regular military exercises and the Northern Territory, as Asia’s gateway to Australia, is perceived by our region as the natural geographic, climatic and cultural hub for engagement with the ADF and other armed forces. Defence industrial supply chain ventures between Australian and Asian firms also have the potential to expand from the Northern Territory.

OUR PLAN OF ACTION1. Engage with Australian and foreign Defence forces to capture

opportunities for additional training areas which capitalise on the Territory’s geographic advantages.

2. Through the Strategic Defence Advisory Board, identify opportunities for Northern Territory industry in the Asia Pacific and in particular the Indonesian Defence sector.

3. Facilitate and foster a Defence Science and Technology presence in the Northern Territory with linkages to Charles Darwin University.

REGIONAL ENGAGEMENT HUB

Strategic Engagement: Exercise KOWARISoldiers from the Australian Army, the People’s Liberation Army of China, and the United States Army and Marine Corps took part in Exercise KOWARI 2014. This exercise was a tri-nation survival activity teaching and testing survival skills in a number of locations across the Territory. Exercises like this contribute significantly to relationship building regionally and globally. The Northern Territory’s proximity to Asia makes it a logical location to host larger and more frequent regional interactions.

AUSTRALIAN ARMY OFFICER LIEUTENANT LACHLAN JOSEPH (LEFT) MAKES A FISHING LURE, WHILE PEOPLE’S LIBERATION ARMY OF CHINA OFFICER LIEUTENANT HUANG JIN LONG UPDATES HIS JOURNAL DURING THE SURVIVAL EXERCISE.

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STRATEGIC THEME

The various elements of Australia’s whole-of-government border security apparatus will coalesce most naturally and effectively from the Northern Territory, leveraging and enhancing the geographic position front and center to Australia’s Northern approaches. National surveillance and reconnaissance assets, such as UAV and Joint Strike Fighters, along with maritime patrol elements and larger naval platforms, based and fully supported from Darwin and or Tindal, will provide benefits to Defence, industry and the nation. Regional stability will contribute to the development of economic confidence and long term investments.

OUR PLAN OF ACTION1. Engage with the Australian Defence Force and Australian Border

Force in relation to basing and support of equipment and personnel to create opportunities for industry, new infrastructure, and population growth.

SECURE BORDERS

Border and Maritime SurveillanceThe Northern Territory’s geographic location makes it the focal point for Border Security and Maritime surveillance activities across northern Australia. The significant presence of Australian Navy Armidale Class Patrol Boats, Customs Cape class patrol boats and operation of the RAAF Orion surveillance aircraft in Darwin engaged in border and maritime surveillance provides opportunity for industry support.

The Australian Government has committed to the acquisition of the Triton Unmanned Aerial Vehicle (UAV) to patrol Australia’s ocean approaches, and work closely with other Australian Defence Force assets to secure Australia’s ocean resources, including the substantial energy resources off northern Australia, and help to protect our borders. The presence of these state of the art high tech platforms will act as an attractor for similar unmanned systems across other sectors.

The basing and/or operation of unmanned aerial vehicles in the NT will provide the opportunity for an industry to be established for support and maintenance creating jobs for Territorians.

TRITON MQ4C

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STRATEGIC THEME

Strategic Land for IndustryThe Land Development Corporation is the Northern Territory Government’s strategic land developer. The Corporation assists enterprises by providing easy access to well-located industrial and commercial land in Australia’s Northern Territory.

Defence has a significant infrastructure program proposed for the Northern Territory over the next decade. Over the years Defence has been a major contributor to economic and population growth in the Northern Territory. The development of RAAF Base Tindal (Katherine) and Army’s Robertson Barracks (Darwin) are examples of major infrastructure projects which have engaged local industry and grown the Defence population. Plans for the development of facilities at RAAF Tindal to accommodate the Joint Strike Fighter and the redevelopment of facilities at other bases will continue to provide opportunities.

The decisions Defence makes in satisfying its infrastructure requirements can greatly enhance the opportunities for commercial growth. Infrastructure that has dual Defence and commercial utility should be encouraged.

An exemplar of this approach is the Multi User Barge Ramp Facility, which is a joint venture between the Northern Territory Land Development Corporation and Defence. The Multi User Barge Ramp, designed to meet the needs of the new Canberra Class Amphibious Assault Ship (LHD) will also be available to other commercial users. Constructed within the Marine Industry Park, the new ramp will link to new and existing hardstands and other Government and commercial infrastructure developments supporting the maritime sector.

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Defence has always been a significant investor in infrastructure across the top end. The development of Ports, Airports, Roads and Rail are strategic enablers for Defence and Border Security Agencies.

The Northern Territory is in a key geographic location to support the ADF and our coalition partners in their training and operational objectives more than any other location across Australia. Smart Investments by Defence in joint use multi-purpose infrastructure will see better value for money for Defence and contribute to the growth of economic opportunities across the north of Australia in the long run, eventually allowing northern Australia to reach a critical economic mass and reducing its reliance on federal funding.

The Northern Territory Government has been working closely with the Commonwealth Government in the development of priority infrastructure projects for inclusion in the Commonwealth’s planning. Some of these priority projects, such as development of a Tennant Creek to Mt Isa infrastructure corridor that could include a rail link, a gas pipeline, telecommunications infrastructure and a water pipeline, could have strategic and operational benefits to Defence.

The growing Defence activity in Northern Australia will likely require development of infrastructure which not only benefits Defence but is also nation building.

OUR PLAN OF ACTION1. Work with Defence and industry to identify opportunities for multi

purpose infrastructure.

2. Engage with the Federal Government to promote the development of infrastructure in the Northern Territory to support future growth in the basing and operation of Australian and foreign forces.

NATION BUILDING INFRASTRUCTURE

ARTISTS IMPRESSION: MULTI-USER BARGE RAMP FACILITY

STRATEGIC THEME

Marine Industry ParkStrategically located on premium waterfront land in the East Arm Logistics Precinct, the 130 hectare Marine Industry Park will establish competitive marine maintenance and engineering capabilities in Darwin. The Northern Territory Government is investing $100 million on the development of a common user ship lift as the foundation of the Marine Industry Park.  

The Land Development Corporation will go to market seeking commercial partners with construction scheduled to commence as early as 2017. 

The common user ship lift facility will meet the current and future maintenance needs of Defence, Australian Border Force and other commercial users, and remove the need for Defence vessels to use Asian ports or other Australian cities for maintenance and repairs.

The Marine Industry Park will be dedicated to marine maintenance, logistics, engineering and fabrication and support services for the oil and gas, Defence and marine related industries.

Defence Support HubDarwin’s Defence Support Hub is a 53 hectare industrial precinct for businesses that provide services and support to the Australian Department of Defence. The Hub is positioned close to Robertson Barracks to enable prime contractors and small businesses to establish industry clusters to deliver valuable support for Defence platforms and the Joint Logistics Unit North.

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The Northern Territory Department of Business estimated in 2014 there were 14,212 businesses in the Northern Territory, 60.2% of whom are sole traders and 35.8% employ between 1 to 19 people. It is difficult and costly for Northern Territory businesses to engage with Defence and prime contractors to win Defence work. This needs to change.

The growth of the oil and gas industry across the Northern Territory has been very good for the maturity of a number of industry sectors. Quality and safety systems have matured. Complex and specialised heavy industrial and electrical engineering skills and capability now exist. Many of these skills are transferable to the maritime and land maintenance capability.

The Capability and Acquisition Sustainment Group and federal procurement policies have a significant impact on the ability for industry capabilities to grow or be maintained. This is particularly important in the maritime maintenance industry.

Defence and prime contractors taking marine maintenance and sustainment activities overseas is detrimental to the maintenance of critical skills and capabilities regionally in the long term and degrade Defence capability by removing platforms off line for unnecessary periods of time. The Northern Territory Government in partnership with NT industry bodies will continue to work with Defence and prime contractors to identity opportunities to develop competitive options to support Defence achieving higher availability of platforms.

Northern Territory businesses that identify themselves as Defence service providers have typically diversified to ensure continuity of work. Defence should not underestimate its role in providing opportunities for industry capability in the Northern Territory. Accordingly the Defence industry policy is a key driver that underpins the development and sustainment of critical industry capability.

Broader opportunities exist for Northern Territory businesses to provide a range of logistic support services. The more frequently Defence exercises occur the greater the requirement for a broad range of supply and service including heavy line haulage, catering, sanitation services and coach charters. These opportunities provide critical logistic mass in conjunction with a growing exploration and production capability. Conveniently these capabilities are also critical to establishing resilience across the Territory during times of natural disaster.

Further opportunities for defence industry exist in our region to provide a range of services and capabilities to visiting Navies. A concerted approach to develop maritime maintenance and support capability in Darwin may prove useful and be complementary to our ambitions to further develop maritime and amphibious training areas.

REALISING DEFENCE AND BUSINESS SYNERGIES

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GATEWAY TO THE ASIA PACIFIC Darwin is situated in a key strategic location centrally located at the top of Northern Australia. It is a natural gateway to support operations into waters to the north of Australia.

It is the logical location for the basing of a multitude of Defence capabilities, a key node for trade. The development of joint use infrastructure to support the ADF and our international partners will also provide economies of scale and contribute to Australia’s economic advantage.

Oil & Gas ExportsThe growing Oil and Gas and Agriculture sectors rely on good trading relationships and stability within the region to generate confidence and growth. These sectors also contribute to the requirement for enhanced infrastructure such as roads, and port facilities contributing to economic viability of future development. Additionally, demand for energy across the Asia Pacific will increase demand and export opportunities for the Northern Territory and require growth in maritime infrastructure.

THE INDUSTRY CAPABILITY NETWORK (ICN), THE AUSTRALIAN INDUSTRY AND DEFENCE NETWORK (AIDN-NT) AND THE NORTHERN TERRITORY CHAMBER OF COMMERCE ARE IMPORTANT INDUSTRY PARTNERS WHO WILL PLAY A SIGNIFICANT ROLE WITH THE NT GOVERNMENT TO IDENTIFY AND CONNECT INDUSTRY CAPABILITY WITH DEFENCE NEEDS.

Shell Prelude FLNG FacilityThe Prelude Floating Liquefied Natural Gas (FLNG) facility, which will operate in waters 475 kilometres north-east of Broome in Western Australia, will be 488m long and 74m wide, weighing more than 600,000 tonnes fully ballasted. A $29 million warehousing facility at Darwin’s East Arm, will provide equipment and parts to the offshore processing plant. The Prelude FLNG development in Australia will be Shell’s first deployment of its FLNG technology. The technology allows for the production, liquefaction, storage and transfer of LNG at sea, as well as the ability to process and export liquefied petroleum gas (LPG) and condensate. The FLNG facility and the associated on shore supply base will create employment and economic revenue as well as growing Darwin’s reputation as an oil and gas industry service centre.

21FA-18 HORNET AIR FORCE JET

The Northern Territory with its rich military history and attractions such as the Bombing of Darwin Experience, Military Museum and Aviation Museum, is attractive to people with a connection to the Defence forces.

Each year approximately one third of the 6000 Defence personnel based in the NT, plus their families, relocate in to and out of the Northern Territory. These are not just tourists here for a couple of days or weeks, but residents here for years. They are keen to make the most of their time in the NT and often also invite relatives and friends from interstate to come and stay. Encouraging domestic tourism with a military flavour is an opportunity the Northern Territory Government is investing in.

The rotations of US Marines to the top end, which over the next few years will increase to 2500 personnel, will create an opportunity for industry to provide tourism experiences during their limited rest and recreation periods. Additionally, visiting foreign navy vessels can bring thousands of Defence ‘tourists’ to the NT looking to ‘Do the NT’ in the short time available to them while their ship is in port.

Defence exercises, such as Exercise Pitch Black and Exercise Talisman Sabre, bring with them thousands of participants from Australian and foreign Defence forces. Understanding these opportunities and the needs of the various groups is critical to creating appropriate experiences and maximising the return to the industry.

The NT Government, through Tourism NT, will look to develop and promote opportunities for Defence personnel posted and exercising across the Territory, along with visiting foreign military personnel, to experience some of the Northern Territory’s iconic tourist destinations.

LIFESTYLE AND CULTURAL EXPERIENCE

THE ROTATIONS OF US MARINES TO THE TOP END OVER THE NEXT FEW YEARS WILL INCREASE TO 2500 PERSONNEL.

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THE NORTHERN TERRITORY IS AN ICONIC DESTINATION. THOUSANDS OF TOURISTS VISIT OUR NATIONAL PARKS, WILDLIFE SANCTUARIES AND OTHER TOURIST ATTRACTIONS ANNUALLY. FOR DEFENCE PERSONNEL POSTED TO THE TERRITORY, WHAT AN OPPORTUNITY TO BE ABLE TO LIVE CLOSE TO AND EXPERIENCE SOME OF THE WORLD’S MOST ICONIC TOURIST DESTINATIONS.

Defence is an evolving endeavour. The arrival of increasingly complex and high tech equipment into the Defence force creates an opportunity for the Northern Territory to take the lead on research and development activities. The Northern Territory environment, ranging from dry desert to tropical wetlands, provides significant scope to be a world leader in the performance of man and machine in such diverse operating environments. Additionally, as the Northern Territory is likely to be a future hub for significant numbers of unmanned aerial platforms across not only the Defence sector but border security, land management and oil and gas exploration, the opportunity exists to expand research and development into the operation, management and performance of unmanned systems in desert and tropical environments.

Charles Darwin University has established itself as a research intensive university with a focus on Northern Australia and the Asia-Pacific. Charles Darwin University is well placed for research collaboration with the Defence Science and Technology Group into the operation of people and equipment in northern Australia.

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MINDIL BEACH SUNSET, DARWIN

WATARRKA NATIONAL PARK (KINGS CANYON)

RESEARCH AND DEVELOPMENT

STRATEGIC DEFENCE ADVISORY BOARD The NT Government has engaged a number of retired very senior military officers, former public servants and respected academics to assist the NT Government to communicate and navigate its way through the implementation of this strategy.

DEFENCEThe Northern Territory Government will seek to develop deep and long lasting relationships with Defence at a number of levels. This aims to ensure that decision makers across the various Groups and Services understand what the Northern Territory’s role can be in supporting Defence into the future.

The implementation of this strategy is reliant on developing strategic partnerships to ensure future planning for infrastructure and force posture achieves the best outcomes for Defence capability in the long term. This is predicated on Defence creating opportunities for the Northern Territory to grow the infrastructure and industry capability to ensure it is available when critical.

INDUSTRYLocal industry groups such as the Australian Defence and Industry Network- Northern Territory, the Industry Capability Network, the Chamber of Commerce, and the NT Master Builders collectively assisted by the NT Government will seek to maximise opportunities in the sustainment and maintenance of Land, Air and Maritime materiel in addition to providing the capacity to build and maintain future infrastructure requirements.

The implementation of this strategy is reliant on developing, promoting and connecting NT Defence industry with prime Defence contractors, materiel managers and decision makers within Defence and the Capability Acquisition and Sustainment Group.

DEFENCE COMMUNITY GROUPSSkilled people are the backbone of Defence; accordingly, the Northern Territory has a significant role to play to ensure that Defence service personnel and their families look forward to coming to the Northern Territory. Additionally, the NT Government has a big role to play to ensure Defence families integrate well into the community. It will do this by ensuring Defence families are aware of the opportunities for primary, secondary and tertiary education, and can access supporting mechanisms like tutoring to assist what can be an unsettling transition for children. It will ensure that families are aware of and can access quality health care services and that new Territorians are welcomed into sporting communities, and other social groups.

Serving and ex-serving veterans also need to be supported in accessing appropriate assistance. Engaging the community in national events such as Anzac Day, the Bombing of Darwin, Remembrance Day and Vietnam Veterans’ Day will help a new generation understand the contribution of our veterans.

IMPLEMENTATIONTHE SUCCESSFUL IMPLEMENTATION OF THE “STRATEGY FOR DEFENCE IN THE NORTHERN TERRITORY” IS RELIANT ON ITS BROAD COMMUNICATION ACROSS A RANGE OF FEDERAL GOVERNMENT DEPARTMENTS, DEFENCE, INDUSTRY AND COMMUNITY.

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COMMANDER OF THE 1ST BRIGADE, AUSTRALIAN ARMY OFFICER BRIGADIER MICK RYAN LEADS THE DEFENCE CONTINGENT ON THE ANZAC DAY MARCH THROUGH THE DARWIN CITY.

THE NORTHERN TERRITORY GOVERNMENT WILL SEEK TO DEVELOP DEEP AND LONG LASTING RELATIONSHIPS WITH DEFENCE AT A NUMBER OF LEVELS.

DEFENCE – PART OF OUR COMMUNITYThe Defence community is a prominent strand of the Northern Territory’s rich tapestry of ethnicity and diversity.

Defence members and their families participate in our community in many ways including in social clubs, sporting groups and school councils.  Defence partners are a key part of the Territory workforce, bringing skills and experience valued by employers. Territorians and visitors turn out in force to support our service men and women who have displayed great courage, discipline and self-sacrifice in choosing a life of service to their country. With a Defence community exceeding 14000 people, Anzac Day in the Territory is a special occasion.

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© Published by Northern Territory Government, 2015

Strategic Defence Support GroupNorthern Territory Government

GPO Box 4396, Darwin NT 0801 Australiaemail: [email protected]

www.nt.gov.au/defencesupport