On 5 September 2023, the Senate referred an inquiry into the Middle Arm Industrial Precinct to the Senate Environment and Communications References Committee for inquiry and report by 28 February 2024, with the following terms of reference:

On 10 November 2023, the committee was granted an extension of time for the report until 30 April 2024.

On 4 April 2024, the committee presented a progress report requesting an extension until 13 August 2024. 

(a) the development of Darwin’s Middle Arm Industrial Precinct, the role and funding intentions of the Northern Territory and Commonwealth governments;
(b) the likely and intended future uses of the site as well as the industries and supply chains that would benefit from those plans;
(c) any climate, environmental, health or cultural heritage impacts as a result of developing the harbour and the industries seeking to establish themselves at Middle Arm;
(d) the conduct, process and implications of the proposed strategic environmental assessment for Middle Arm;
(e) engagement and advocacy by industries and their representatives throughout the Middle Arm proposal, including with First Nations groups and communities adherence to the principles of free, prior and informed consent; and
(f) any other related matters.

The closing date for submissions is 31 October 2023.