New strategy to build a bigger, better Territory workforce
The Northern Territory Government has released a new 10-year workforce development strategy to attract, develop and retain the workers needed to support economic growth and meet industry demand.
Building a Bigger, Better Workforce: Northern Territory Workforce Development Strategy 2026–2036 sets out a practical approach to grow the Territory's workforce, build capability and strengthen participation.
With more than 29,000 additional jobs projected over the next decade, the strategy will help prepare the Territory for growing workforce demand across resources, infrastructure, defence, energy and other key industries.
Developed in partnership with government, business, industry and the community, the strategy focuses on 3 priorities:
- More people: growing the workforce: Attracting workers, increasing workforce participation and supporting migration aligned with industry needs.
- Better skills: building capability: Aligning education and training with industry demand, expanding apprenticeships and traineeships, and strengthening pathways from school to work.
- Lifestyle and productivity: strengthening conditions: Addressing barriers to living and working in the Territory, including housing, cost of living and connectivity.
Each priority is supported by actions to address workforce challenges and respond to emerging opportunities, including technological advancements and major project investment.
The strategy will guide ongoing collaboration between government, industry and the community to build a skilled, sustainable workforce that supports economic diversification and long-term growth.
Read the Building a Bigger, Better Workforce: Northern Territory Workforce Development Strategy 2026–2036.
