Infrastructure Australia has evaluated and approved the Middle Arm Sustainable Development Precinct‘s Stage Two business case, stating the project “will support the opportunity to transition Australia’s exports to high-tech, low-cost, low-emission energy sources.”
According to the Northern Territory Government, the assessment is pivotal in transforming the Middle Arm into a modern, low-emissions, development-ready industrial precinct founded on environmental, cultural, and social principles.
The Middle Arm Precinct is also expected to improve the value of mining and manufacturing to the NT and Australia as a whole, according to the review.
To ensure the precinct’s success, the Territory Government said it has undertaken and will continue to undertake extensive planning and engagement.
This includes stringent environmental approvals to guarantee the continued protection of Darwin Harbour and its surrounding areas.
When fully operational, the precinct will generate 20,000 jobs, enhance renewable energy generation, reduce greenhouse gas emissions, increase the value of exports, and spur development in various industries.
“Middle Arm is crucial in the growth of our low-emissions and renewable energy sector as we power towards a net-zero future,” Chief Minister Natasha Fyles said.
“It is not a secret that sustainability is at the core of Middle Arm, with sustainable energy, sustainable jobs, and a sustainable environmental strategy all part of the plan to build a strong future for the Territory,” Chief Minister Fyles stated.
A Stage Three business case is being produced for the final Infrastructure Australia examination before the approval of Investment Ready.
The Middle Arm Sustainable Development Business Case will be made public in the following weeks.
“The Middle Arm Precinct will greatly benefit Territorians long into the future, we are creating new sources of renewable and low-emission energy, unlocking new opportunities and focusing on a cleaner, greener future,” Minister for Territory Development Eva Lawler said.
“Due to its strategic position and extensive planning, the Middle Arm Precinct will enable several industries, land and marine, which will add great value to our goal of reaching a $40 billion economy,” Minister Lawler added.
