The NT Government is celebrating ABS numbers showing a positive economic story. Photo: Northern Territory Government.
The Northern Territory is celebrating its high employment numbers, with more Territorians in work than ever before, as the jobs growth rate triples the national average.
ABS statistics reveal that the number of Territorians employed is at its highest level on record, at more than 150,000 people, representing a growth rate of 3.3 per cent in the past 12 months to May.
The national rate of job growth is 1.3 per cent.
“This is fantastic news on the eve of Territory Day, reinforcing the fact that when the Territory embraces opportunity and unleashes our potential, we are a nation leader, we set the tone,” Northern Territory Chief Minister Lia Finocchiaro said.
“More people in jobs is simply great news. We are rebuilding the economy, we are reducing crime and we are restoring the Territory lifestyle. One doesn’t happen without the others.
“The Finocchiaro CLP Government will continue to support business to create jobs and prosperity in the Territory.”
Labour force trend data from the ABS for May 2026 shows that the employment rate in the Territory grew by 0.7 per cent in one month.
Treasurer Bill Yan said businesses were seeking staff, investment had grown and confidence was returning to the economy.
“The numbers back it up. For the first time in our history, more than 150,000 people are in jobs in the Northern Territory. That’s the highest number of Territorians ever in work,” he said.
“Spread the word: if you want a good job and career and a great lifestyle, the Territory has plenty of jobs waiting for you to apply.”
Mrs Finocchiaro said housing to accommodate the workforce was a priority.
“The HomeGrown Territory grant offers $50,000 for first-home buyers building or buying a new home,” she said. ”It is also available to owner-builders and for off-the-plan purchases.
“And the FreshStart new-home grant offers $30,000 to purchase a new home or to build a new home to live in if you are not a first-home owner. It is also available to owner-builders and for off-the-plan purchases.”
Data shows that the value of engineering construction work in the NT increased by 18 per cent to $347 million in the year-ended March quarter of this year.
“By getting the investment policy settings right in the Territory, we are creating opportunities for businesses to expand and for Territorians and Australians everywhere to get good jobs here in the NT,” Mrs Finocchiaro said.
Other economic boons include the Beetaloo gas project, the Arafura rare-earth metals mine and the continuing development of the Northern Marine Complex.
