The Northern Territory is set to see a significant influx of skilled workers in 2024, thanks to the Lawler Labor Government’s proactive approach to economic expansion. The Territory’s allocation under the General Skilled Migration (GSM) program has doubled from the previous year, increasing to 1,600 overseas skilled workers.
Skilled professionals from various industries, including health, science, finance, agriculture, construction, telecommunications, IT, and hospitality, can now apply for NT Government nominations through MigrationNT. The GSM program offers both permanent and provisional five-year visas, providing a pathway to permanent residency in the NT.
This development follows the Federal Government’s announcement in December 2023, prioritising employer-sponsored visa applications from regional areas, with the entire Northern Territory designated as regional for migration purposes.
The impact of this increase is substantial, with skilled migrants expected to contribute approximately $1.4 billion to the Territory economy between 2021 and 2027. This move is part of a broader strategy to grow the NT economy to $40 billion by 2030.
Territory employers and job seekers can connect via the Territory Government’s online platform, WorkerConnect, which already boasts a talent pool of over 10,000 job seekers eager to work in the NT. For further information, visit www.jobs.theterritory.com.au or learn more about the GSM Program at theterritory.com.au/migrate/migrate-to-work.
Chief Minister Eva Lawler emphasised the importance of attracting more skilled workers to the Territory to drive economic and population growth. “We need more skilled workers in the Territory, and I want many of these 1,600 skilled workers to stay and build a life here,” she said. Lawler pledged to continue advocating to the Federal Government for more flexible settings to attract and retain overseas skilled workers in the NT, describing the initiative as a win for both business and population growth.
Minister for Business and Jobs Joel Bowden highlighted the Lawler Labor Government’s commitment to ensuring the Territory receives its fair share of skilled migration allocations. “Growing the Northern Territory’s population and economy requires an increase in skilled migrants, and the Territory Government is committed to making it easier for businesses to find the workers they need,” Bowden stated.
This initiative marks a significant step towards securing the skilled workforce necessary to support the Territory’s economic ambitions and ensure sustainable growth for years to come.
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