The NT Government is establishing East Arm in Darwin as the prime location for marine maintenance and servicing facilities in northern Australia.

The Ship Lift and Marine Industries Project has the potential to drive the development of prime industrial land to support the defence, oil and gas, coastal barging and logistics sectors.

The NT Government is prepared to invest up to $100 million towards the project costs and is continuing consultation with Defence, Border Force and industry to secure local marine maintenance commitments that would underpin the project.

The NT Government received a strong response to the call for Expressions of Interest phase with 13 submissions evaluated as conforming bids following 42 registrations of interest and 23 briefings by the Department of the Chief Minister.

Pearl Marine Engineering (PME) was announced on 15 August 2016 as the preferred proponent and negotiations will now begin.