Committee: Joint Standing Committee on Northern Australia
Date referred: 20 August 2025
Submissions close: TBC
Reporting date: 20 August 2026

Following a referral received on 20 August 2025 from the Minister for Resources and Minister for Northern Australia, the Hon Madeleine King MP, the Joint Standing Committee on Northern Australia will inquire into and report on the expansion and development of airports and seaports in Northern Australia.

Terms of reference

The Joint Standing Committee on Northern Australia shall inquire into and report on the expansion and development of airports and seaports in Northern Australia, with reference to:

1. The transition to net zero and furthering renewable energy, decarbonisation and carbon abatement;
2. Developing the critical minerals industry;
3. Maximising investments made by Special Investment Vehicles;
4. Supporting the development of export industries;
5. Supporting the decommissioning industry;
6. Supporting the defence industry;
7. Infrastructure that supports ports including road transport;
8. Managing security and biosecurity risks;
9. Attracting and retaining a skilled workforce;
10. Empowering and upskilling local First Nations people; and
11. Barge landings and marine access for remote communities.