Welcome to Tourism NT Industry Update providing you with the latest news, information about grants and programs, events and training opportunities.
 

TOURISM NT BIG WINNERS WITH G'DAY

Tourism NT has won the bid to host G’day Australia 2026, Tourism Australia’s biennial trade event for international front line travel agents. 

More than 600 delegates including 300 agents will visit the Northern Territory next year in what will be the largest tourism trade event ever held in the NT. The news that Darwin will host the event was announced today by Federal Trade and Tourism Minister Don Farrell alongside NT Minister for Tourism and Hospitality Marie-Clare Boothby and Tourism NT CEO Suzana Bishop. Tourism Australia Executive General Manager, Global Markets & Business Events Australia Robin Mack was also in Darwin for the announcement. 

The huge tourism industry event to be held in Darwin in October 2026 is part of Tourism NT’s new strategy to increase international visitation during off peak periods and further promotes the NT as a must-visit destination. 

The event will provide a welcome boost for Territory tourism and hospitality operators with the event expected to inject more than $3 million in on-ground spend during Darwin’s shoulder season.

The 300 qualified Aussie Specialist agents are from more than 17 markets including China, India, Malaysia, UK and the US. The travel agents will meet with Australian tourism providers face-to-face and take part in familiarisation visits in the NT to experience Australia’s world class tourism offerings.

Agents who take part in G’day Australia already specialise in selling Australian holidays, however more than half who take part in the event have never visited Darwin or the NT before. Agents will leave with knowledge and experiences they can then go on to sell to holidaymakers.

G’day Australia 2026 will be delivered by Tourism Australia in partnership with Tourism NT.

NEWS
 

MEET WITH ENTERPRISE OFFICERS IN YOUR REGION

Over the past month, our Industry Development team continued to support tourism businesses across the Territory through one-on-one engagement and tailored advice. In recent months, the team connected with several businesses in Darwin and Alice Springs to discuss current challenges, share upcoming opportunities, and strengthen links between industry and government.

Looking ahead, our Enterprise Officers will be visiting Litchfield (Batchelor region), Santa Teresa, and the Tanami region in August.

If you're a tourism business in these areas and would like to book an appointment, please get in touch via [email protected]

REAL PEOPLE, REAL TERRITORY

The latest episode of Real People, Real Territory was recently launched, featuring Suzi (Railway Rose) from the Ghan.

Suzi gives a guided tour of the Ghan; taking us through what you will experience, she explains the origin of the Ghan and takes all through all you’ll experience on your journey between Alice Springs and Darwin. People like Suzi are the backbone of our industry and this a great way to showcase their contribution.

Read more

DESTINATION NT - PARTNER WITH US AND GET INVOLVED
 

Destination NT will be held in Darwin from 4 to 8 November 2025 and tourism, events and hospitality businesses and organisations are invited to get involved - Connect, Collaborate, Celebrate!

Partnership opportunities are now available! Or host an industry-led event alongside the official program. Don’t miss this opportunity to align your brand and connect with tourism, event and hospitality participants from across the NT and Australia.

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EOI OPEN FOR DISTRIBUTION DEVELOPMENT PROGRAM

Tourism NT invite tourism and hospitality businesses to join the Distribution Development Program. Gain expert mentoring, trade show access, and tailored support to grow your trade distribution. Two program stages are available. Limited places –
so submit your EOI today!

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THE COUNTDOWN IS ON FOR THE TOTAL SOLAR ECLISPE 2028 IN CENTRAL AUSTRALIA

The 22nd of July 2025 marked three years until the Total Solar Eclipse 2028 (TSE2028) which runs across the Barkly region.

With clear skies, Outback Central Australia just happens to be one of the best locations in the world to experience this astronomical event. A total solar eclipse occurs when the Moon passes between the Sun and Earth, totally blocking the face of the Sun.

This alignment casts a shadow on Earth, and observers within the ‘path of totality’ experience a temporary darkening of the sky, as if it were dawn or dusk. During this brief period, the Sun's outer atmosphere, the corona, can be seen. 

The process of the moon moving across the face of the Sun takes up to about three hours, but the time of totality, when the Sun is completely obscured by the moon will only last for about 5 minutes. 

This rare and spectacular phenomenon is probably the most awe-inspiring event in the natural world and will likely to draw a large number of International and National eclipse chasers to the NT.

This event sees tourism operators and those in the path of totality gearing up for the
many visitors that seek this different and unique event in the truly stunning landscapes
of the Barkly.

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DESIGN FOR ATSIAGA REACHES 50% COMPLETION MILESTONE

The Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Art Gallery of Australia (ATSIAGA) in Mparntwe, Alice Springs is one step closer to reality with 50% designs completed. 

ATSIAGA will showcase and celebrate the rich artistic traditions of Australia's Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples. It will provide an engaging and inclusive experience for visitors, reflecting the diverse cultural heritage of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander communities.

Located in the heart of the Alice Springs CBD on the southern portion of the Anzac Oval precinct, the redesigned Gallery will feature:

• A 3-storey building of approximately 4000sqm with large galleries for major touring and international exhibitions. The total area of exhibition space is over 1300sqm, similar to previous designs.

• A colour pallet and design that highlights and draws on the local landscape.

• Public cafe.

• Back of house and technical spaces, including a secure loading dock, art quarantine, conservation and registration spaces and staff spaces.

• Gallery forecourt, including seating and landscaping elements to allow for both small and large groups.

• A new entrance and secure car park for the Over 50's community, including four additional secure car parking spaces.

• New car parking for the Gallery, including 89 spaces plus 4 disability spaces.

• New northern car park for Anzac Oval that includes 79 spaces plus 5 caravan parking spaces.
   

The Gallery drives cultural tourism, supporting the broader arts ecosystem and Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander businesses while developing education, reconciliation, and understanding.

Following further progression of the design and regulatory approvals, it is anticipated that the gallery will take 18 to 24 months for construction. The gallery is expected to be open in late 2027.

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NORTHERN TERRITORY AND AIRASIA MALAYSIA LAUNCH TRAVEL CAMPAIGN

The Northern Territory has partnered with AirAsia Malaysia to launch a new campaign aimed at encouraging Malaysian travellers to explore Australia's Top End. The campaign featuring the friendly mascot, Captain Snappy, kicked off with a high-impact 3D digital billboard at Pavilion Elite, one of Kuala Lumpur’s busiest retail centres. This marks the beginning of a year-long collaboration designed to position the Northern Territory as a preferred travel destination. The integrated campaign will run across outdoor advertising, radio, online publishers, podcasts, influencer partnerships, and paid digital media.

As part of the launch, AirAsia is promoting a social media contest linked to the MXGP event. The campaign also includes discounted return flights to Darwin, available for travel until March 2026.

GRANTS
 

ABORIGINAL TOURISM GRANTS

Tourism NT have several funding programs on offer to support and assist Aboriginal owned businesses and organisations. 
 

ABORIGINAL TOURISM DEVELOPMENT SUPPORT GRANT PROGRAM
ROUND 4

A total of up to $200,000 (excluding GST) is provided for professional services to support feasibility studies, business planning and to assist in preparing applications to the relevant land council or other land management authority.

Applications can be submitted for a minimum funding value of $10,000 up to $30,000 (excluding GST).

Applications close: Friday 6 March 2026 or earlier if program funding is fully subscribed.

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ABORIGINAL TOURISM GRANT PROGRAM ROUND 9 NOW OPEN

Tourism NT is providing a non-competitive funding pool of $500,000 (excluding GST) to develop Aboriginal cultural tourism experiences and tourism product that encourages visitors to travel to the Northern Territory and stay longer.

A minimum of $30,000 up to a maximum $100,000 (excluding GST) is available to eligible applicants.

Applications close: Friday 6 March 2026 or earlier if program funding is fully subscribed.

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eeger, - THERE'S A CAREER FOR YOU IN TOURISM, HOSPITALITY AND TRAVEL

A new career and training destination for Australian Tourism, Hospitality, and Travel. For industry, by industry has launched!

eeger is an industry-led platform for the visitor economy, aiming to:

• Serve as a central source of information for education, training, and careers in the visitor economy.

• Connect job seekers with employers across Tourism, Hospitality, and Travel.

• Provide education and training opportunities as well as career pathway information.

• Offer businesses in the visitor economy insights and resources to help them advertise jobs and find employees.
   

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EVENTS

DARWIN FESTIVAL 2025!

The Darwin Festival is in full swing, with a unmissable program that captures the spirit of the Top End through arts, culture, food, stories, dance, and laughter. Running until 24 August, the festival transforms Darwin into a dynamic hub of creativity and connection, offering experiences that fill the heart, mind, and soul.

Each year, the festival draws thousands of visitors from across the country and overseas, all eager to experience the Territory’s tropical warmth, laid-back charm, and magical evenings under the stars.

This year’s program features:

• World-class performances in music, theatre, dance, and comedy

• Immersive cultural experiences that celebrate First Nations voices and stories

• Family-friendly events and interactive installations

• Delicious food offerings from local vendors and pop-up kitchens

• Open-air venues that showcase Darwin’s unique outdoor lifestyle.
   

The festival also plays a vital role in supporting the local creative economy, providing a platform for artists, performers, and producers to showcase their work to diverse audiences.

For industry professionals, it’s an opportunity to connect with peers, discover emerging talent, and engage with the cultural heartbeat of the Northern Territory.

Whether you're a long-time supporter or a first-time visitor, Darwin Festival offers a truly unique experience, where culture meets community in one of Australia’s most captivating settings.

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DARWIN INTERNATIONAl LAKSA FESTIVAL

The Darwin International Laksa Festival is back this October, celebrating seven years as one of the Territory’s most flavourful and beloved events. 

Held throughout the month, the festival brings together our laksa loving community, local businesses, and culinary creatives to honour the rich diversity of laksa and the NT’s vibrant food culture. The festival attracts thousands of food enthusiasts from across Australia and internationally, all eager to explore traditional and inventive laksa-inspired dishes.

The Laksa Festival comprises of two key elements: 

•  The Laksa Festival Food Tour; and

•  The Laksa Festival Finale.

The Food Tour is held from 1-31 October and encourages visitors and locals alike to visit as many food venues registered on the tour as much as possible throughout the festival; and to try, share and vote for their favourite dishes. 

The Festival Finale is held on Saturday 1 November at the Darwin Waterfront, and will feature live music, cooking demos, roving performers, and the presentation of the hotly contested Golden Bowl and People’s Choice Awards.

Registrations are now open for venues to serve up a laksa or laksa-inspired dish as part of the Food Tour. Whether you’re a first-time entrant or a returning favourite, the festival is a fantastic opportunity to promote your venue, increase foot traffic and increase sales at a traditionally quieter time of year. Past creations have included everything from the traditional laksa soup to laksa-inspired dishes such as ice cream, burgers, salads, desserts and even beer! 

The laksa loving community can also join in on the fun by signing up to the Laksa League, an online game where players can earn points and win prizes, just by indulging in laksa dishes throughout the month.

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MXGP OF AUSTRALIA

The countdown for the inaugural MXGP of Australia is on! This September, Darwin will roar into life as MXGP rips it up Down Under for the first time in nearly 25 years.

From 19 to 21 September 2025, the world’s greatest riders, teams and bikes will descend on the Top End to put on one of the greatest shows in the motorsport calendar.

Across three thrilling days elite riders will compete on a purpose-built track at Hidden Valley across MXGP, MX2 and WMX categories.

The 1.61km track is built to MXGP international standards, featuring massive jumps, high-speed straights, and technical obstacles that will challenge the best riders in the world. With 22 corners, 21 jumps, and a 90-metre start straight that crosses the iconic Hidden Valley Road Racing Circuit, this track is as unique as it is intense.

Tickets are on sale now and selling fast! There are a range of options for fans including a premium hospitality package, the Skybox, which provides exclusive access and unmatched views of the track, and the Holeshot Hotel, a family-friendly premium general admission area capturing the laid-back spirit of the Northern Territory.

A 3-Day Hot Pass is only $150, single day passes start from $45 and kids 12 and under enjoy free entry with a paying adult. A $30 Paddock Pass upgrade offers exclusive behind-the-scenes access.

With fans flocking in from across Australia and beyond, the MXGP of Australia is more than a race, it’s a high-octane celebration of legendary Territory hospitality, vibrant culture and one-of-a-kind adventure. From world-class racing to unforgettable Top End experiences, it’s motorsport like you’ve never seen it.

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DARWIN INTERNATIONAL FILM FESTIVAL

he Darwin International Film Festival (DIFF) returns this September, bringing eleven nights of world-class cinema to the heart of the Northern Territory (NT). From 11 to 21 September 2025, DIFF will transform Darwin’s iconic Deckchair Cinema into a vibrant hub of storytelling, creativity, and cultural exchange.

The festival features visiting filmmakers, Premiere gala events, film industry initiatives and live entertainment. This year’s festival kicks off with the NT Premiere of the powerful new documentary, Journey Home, David Gulpilil.

The festival’s diverse program includes feature films, documentaries, animations, and well as captivating shorts. With a focus on South-East Asian cinema, Northern Australia and Indigenous stories.

Running in parallel with DIFF is Screen Territory’s NT Screen Summit, which offers valuable networking sessions and development opportunities for filmmakers, producers, and screen professionals.

Included in DIFF’s program this year is Screen Territory’s “NT On Screen” community screenings including a red-carpet premier of  “Kangaroo” (a free event) at Event Cinemas Palmerston and a special presentation of Miranda Tapsell’s “Top End Bub” at Deckchair Cinema. 

Whether you're an industry insider or a passionate filmgoer, DIFF offers a unique opportunity to experience the best of global and local cinema.

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TOP END T20 SERIES

Following the internationals, returning after 17 years we can now enjoy the Top End T20 Series from 14 to 24 August 2025, sponsored by Tourism NT. This year’s edition is the biggest yet, featuring, four international teams (including the Nepal National Cricket Team, making its debut), six domestic teams and the NT Strike.

A total of 36 matches will be played across five venues:

• DXC Arena

• TIO Stadium

• Gardens Oval

• Cazaly’s Arena

• Freds Pass
   

The series is part of the Cricket 365 initiative, showcasing Darwin as the only place in Australia where elite cricket is played year-round. With global broadcast reach and growing international interest, the Top End T20 Series is fast becoming a fixture on the global cricket calendar.

In local cricket action the Darwin & Districts Cricket Competition continues throughout August, with T20 matches also held at DXC Arena, offering fans even more opportunities to enjoy live cricket.

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BRIDGESTONE WORLD SOLAR CHALLENGE 

The 2025 Bridgestone World Solar Challenge (BWSC) will take place from August 24 to 31, starting in Darwin where the world’s brightest young engineers gather for a 3,000 km solar-powered race to Adelaide. Held every two years, this event showcases sustainable innovation, cutting-edge technology, endurance, and environmental elements on the road through the Northern Territory.

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NITRO UP NORTH MOTOR RACING

Nitro Up North returns to Hidden Valley Dragway on 29-30 August 2025, bringing a weekend of high-octane entertainment to the Top End. Headlining the event are the Aeroflow Outlaw Nitro Funny Cars, delivering flame-spitting, side-by-side drag racing action.

The NDRC Season 2 Top Doorslammer Grand Final will see Australia’s fastest Doorslammers battle for championship glory, while the ANDRA Regional Sportsman Series adds local intensity with racers competing for crucial points and bragging rights. Adding to the excitement are freestyle motocross stunt shows and a fireworks finale!

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FESTIVAL OF TRANSPORT

The 2025 four day festival of Transport kicks off  in Alice Springs from 28 – 31 August, beginning with the inaugural Food Fest at the Museum, open access to Kenworth Hall, Buntine Pavilion, and the Ghan Museum alongside a variety of food options.

There will be the induction of 70 new legends into the Wall of Fame and the inspiring Transport Women Unite Red Ball, where Dream Maker Award recipients will be honoured. The festivities wrap up with the iconic Truck Parade and the launch of the very first
Truck Fest.

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NT SCREEN SUMMIT 2025

The two-day event taking place in Darwin on 20-21 September boasts a dynamic program which welcomes a great line-up of guests, including top creatives and producer, national commissioners, and decision-makers.  Guests include creatives behind Top End Bub, Kangaroo, Deadloch, Thou Shalt Not Steal and Journey Home with special attendance by Miranda Tapsell and Kate Box along with key decision makers from STUDIOCANAL, Amazon MGM Studios, STAN, Foxtel BINGE and more!

The summit will benefit professionals in content production and those exploring careers in screen or games development, the two-day industry symposium will look at the stories, the talent and the craft which is shaping Australia’s screen future.

There will be a raft of sessions cover differing topics including, Beyond the Lens, behind the scenes of Top End Bub, in depth exploration of Kangaroo, case study, building a sustainable career and great story ideas. This is a free event, however, booking is essential.  

Read more and secure your ticket

WORKING WITH EVENTS?
 

There are a range of amazing events taking place in all our regions. August - September highlights include: Henley on Todd Regatta, Katherine Cup 2025, Shimano Gravel Muster Stage Race 2025, Noonamah Tavern Rodeo, Gutsy Girls Adventure Film Tour Alice Springs, East Arnhem live, Milikapiti Festival - Tiwi Islands, Red CentreNATS and KwartaTuma Festival.

Find out more
 

Are you planning an event?
Have you thought of partnering?
Get in touch with us about our Event Funding Program.

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