Freight & Trade Alliance (FTA) and the Australian Peak Shippers Association (APSA) have been formally invited by the Parliamentary Joint Standing Committee on Northern Australia to make a submission to its new inquiry into preparing for emerging industries across Northern Australia.

Referred by the Minister for Resources and Northern Australia, the Hon Madeleine King MP, on Tuesday 28 October 2025 the Inquiry will examine how Northern Australia can position itself to support the development of emerging industries through improved supply chains, regulatory settings, workforce capability, and enabling infrastructure. The Committee will report by Wednesday, 28 October 2026.

This inquiry will be of particular interest to members connected to:

• Exporters with interest in Darwin as an export pathway
• Northern Australian ports and gateways
• Rail and intermodal operators
• Shipping lines servicing Northern Australia 
• Operators exploring Northern Australia as a future logistics hub or diversification strategy
• Port owners/operators

The Joint Standing Committee on Northern Australia shall inquire into and report on preparing for emerging industries across Northern Australia, with reference to:

1. The global transition to net zero and furthering renewable energy, decarbonisation and carbon abatement;
2. Developing the critical minerals industry;
3. Supporting the development of export industries;
4. Supporting the decommissioning industry;
5. Supporting the defence industry;
6. Supporting infrastructure;
7. Managing biosecurity risks;
8. Training, attracting and retaining a skilled workforce;
9. Empowering and upskilling local First Nations people;
10. Barge landings and marine access for remote communities; and
11. Research and development.

Feedback

FTA/APSA will prepare a consolidated industry submission to the Committee and invites members to provide feedback, operational examples, or key points for incorporation. Should members wish to provide feedback, please send any input via email to Tom Jensen by Friday, 5 December 2025.

Members may also choose to make their own submission directly to the Committee if preferred. Direct submissions can be lodged via the inquiry website, sent via email to northernaustralia.joint@aph.gov.au or posted to the committee at PO Box 6100, Parliament House, Canberra ACT 2600.

Committee submission deadline: Friday, 12 December 2025.

Further Information about the committee and the inquiry is available on the committee's website.