Government names its preferred proponent for $100 million ship lift facility

The NT Government is set to commit up to $100 million in funding towards East Arm’s new ship-lift facilities.

However, the contribution is reliant on the Commonwealth Government recommitting to servicing its naval and border protection fleet currently located in Darwin.

It is hoped that the new facility will help Darwin secure the position as northern Australia’s marine services hub.

Chief Minister Adam Giles has announced that Pearl Marine Engineering (PME) was selected last month as the preferred company to undertake the operations and subsequently, negotiations will proceed in regards to terms for the project.

Mr Giles spokes of the many benefits of the project, stating; “The ship lift will enhance Darwin’s position as the marine service centre for Defence, Australian Border Force, the oil and gas industry and commercial shipping,” he said.

“The ship lift will drive local industry, employ more Territorians and establish Darwin as a prime location for marine maintenance and servicing facilities in Northern Australia.

“It’s part of the Government’s strategy to diversify the economy and ensure a smooth transition after the completion of Inpex.”

Currently marine industries support up to 4,500 full times jobs in the Northern territory, bringing in roughly $3.5 billion to its economy. 

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