The Northern Territory is launching a fresh recruitment campaign to attract international workers and students, backed by a $4 million commitment from the Finocchiaro CLP Government over the next two years. The move is part of a broader push to revive population growth and support industries crying out for skilled labour.
Minister for International Education, Migration and Population, Robyn Cahill, said the Territory must stay ahead in the race for talent. “The Finocchiaro CLP Government is delivering on its commitment of 2025 being a year of action, certainty and security by assisting Territory businesses to recruit and retain overseas workers,” she said.
As Darwin and surrounding regions face ongoing workforce shortages across sectors like healthcare, hospitality and engineering, the funding will support skilled migration programs, job-matching tools, marketing campaigns, and faster visa processing.
For international students, the focus remains on expanding the Territory’s visibility among education agents and students overseas. The Territory’s lifestyle, multicultural atmosphere and work-study opportunities continue to be key selling points, especially for those weighing up their options post-pandemic.
One such student who made the leap is Prabin Maharjan, owner of Dukes Café and Eatery in Darwin. Originally from Nepal, he came to Australia as an international student and now runs two businesses—his café and a coffee training venture called Brew Dreams.
“Brew Dreams has been a passion project for me,” Maharjan explained. “It’s a not-for-profit program dedicated to empowering young people and jobseekers through barista training. It’s the only coffee school in the NT with a classroom-based setup and accredited trainers.”
He describes Darwin as more than just a place to live. “I may be biased, of course, but my café business, Dukes Café and Eatery is the best café in the best town. Living in Darwin is like living in a big community, and a place where people help each other.”
Later this month, the government, in partnership with industry stakeholders, will host online seminars aimed at attracting skilled workers from the UK, Ireland and South Africa. These webinars are part of the Global Worker Attraction Program and mark the first time the Territory has tested an online-first approach, hoping to boost attendance and accessibility.
Cahill encouraged local employers to take part. “Territory employers are encouraged to log their jobs on WorkerConnect now so their vacancies can be discovered by jobseekers,” she said.
Workers from the three focus countries remain high on the Territory’s target list. They are seen as likely to arrive with families, further boosting population growth and injecting long-term value into local communities.
The strategy is clear: bring in workers who will stay, study, contribute and grow roots. As the NT looks to rebuild its economy after years of disruption, the government is banking on migration and education to do the heavy lifting.
While other states are refining their skilled visa criteria or ramping up domestic training pipelines, the Northern Territory is doubling down on global engagement. The combination of relatively lower living costs, a high quality of life and genuine community connection may offer the Top End a unique edge.
Maharjan, who built a life and two businesses in Darwin, sees no reason to leave. “I enjoy feeling part of the broader community. That’s what makes this place different,” he said.
For a Territory keen to grow, stories like his are the best endorsement it could ask for.
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