The Northern Territory is setting its sights on becoming Australia’s premier destination for military tourism, with a $3 million investment aimed at boosting visitor numbers to its historic war sites.
The initiative, backed by the Finocchiaro CLP Government, includes a new Military Heritage Tourism Action Plan designed to highlight the Territory’s wartime past and reinforce its standing as the country’s first battlefield. At the centre of this effort is a $1 million Military History Tourism Grant program to support operators in developing and expanding military heritage experiences. The fund will help with everything from creating new tourism products to improving existing attractions and enhancing visitor engagement.
An audit of 30 key military heritage sites is also on the agenda, focusing on signage, infrastructure, and digital presence. The aim is to ensure these sites are accessible and informative, giving visitors a clear window into the Territory’s role in Australia’s military history.
Technology is playing a role in the campaign, with an AI-powered trip planner being developed to help tourists tailor their itineraries based on interests. This digital tool will integrate information on heritage sites, activities, and experiences, offering a personalised way to explore the region’s history.
A marketing campaign will follow once key site improvements are complete, driving awareness and attracting visitors eager to explore the region’s wartime past. To oversee the long-term strategy, a Military Heritage Tourism Advisory Committee has been formed, tasked with developing a 10-year blueprint to shape the future of the sector.
Minister for Tourism and Hospitality, Marie-Clare Boothby, believes these initiatives will cement the Territory’s position as a major military tourism destination. “More bombs were dropped in the Territory than at Pearl Harbor, with sites stretching hundreds of kilometres along the Stuart Highway,” she said. “Labor ignored the potential of military tourism, letting key locations deteriorate. We’re changing that. If you want to experience Australia’s wartime history, the Northern Territory is where you need to be.”
The Territory already draws large crowds for events such as the Bombing of Darwin commemoration and the Pitch Black biennial exercises. This new push aims to ensure military tourism continues to grow, bringing economic benefits to local businesses while preserving an important part of Australia’s past.
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