Barnaby Joyce has flown into Darwin to pledge $10m for manufacturing at Darwin Airport, the Coalition announcing it will chip in funding towards research and construction of the Albatross amphibian aircraft.
It follows the NT government’s recent announcement that it would be supporting the project, with the Darwin Airport also expected to commit a significant amount toward the project.
“Establishing a long term industry in aircraft development and manufacturing will directly employ over 300 skilled workers and create around 700 jobs in the extended supply chain,” Mr Joyce.
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from NT News
DEPUTY Prime Minister Barnaby Joyce has flown into the Top End to pledge $10m for manufacturing at Darwin Airport.
The Coalition will chip in the funding towards research and construction of the Albatross amphibian aircraft.
It follows the NT government’s recent announcement that it would be supporting the project, with the Darwin Airport also expected to commit a significant amount toward the project.
Mr Joyce arrived in Darwin on Friday afternoon and is expected to campaign with the Country Liberals.
“Establishing a long term industry in aircraft development and manufacturing will directly employ over 300 skilled workers and create around 700 jobs in the extended supply chain,” he said.
“Our $10m commitment today will help establish an advanced manufacturing centre in the Northern Territory to build upgraded amphibious aircraft for global export and establish an ongoing industry.”
Mr Joyce said a “Labor-Greens alliance” would endanger the project, despite the Territory’s Labor government being enthusiastic about the project.
“Only the Liberal and Nationals government has a long term plan for our regions with a fully costed budget.”
The CLP’s Solomon candidate Tina MacFarlane said the funding commitment would “deliver our young people skilled, long-term jobs”.
“The opportunities that will flow on from this investment will boost economic confidence in Darwin, making our local economy stronger,” Ms MacFarlane said.
Chief Minister Michael Gunner announcing an aerospace precinct at Darwin International Airport. Picture: Glenn Campbell
“This is a significant investment by the Coalition government in local jobs and economic development in the Top End,” she said.
It’s the latest promise from the Coalition in the Northern Territory, as it tries to pick up the two Labor-held seats of Solomon and Lingiari.
Prime Minister Scott Morrison recently promised $300m toward gas and hydrogen projects in the NT, as well as $14m toward tackling crime in Alice Springs. Labor has matched most funding commitments.
