Michael Gunner
Chief Minister of the Northern Territory
Media Release
Darwin Ship Lift Progresses with Environmental Impact Statement
20 November 2021
The Darwin Ship Lift has reached another key milestone, with the release of the draft Environmental Impact Statement (EIS) for assessment by the Northern Territory Environment Protection Authority (NTEPA).
The draft EIS includes technical studies that have found low risk impacts on the environment, air quality and social, economic and cultural impacts following the implementation of appropriate mitigation and management measures.
Once operational, the Ship Lift will be capable of lifting 5,000 tonnes and will be Northern Australia’s biggest ship lift.
It will be a vital piece of infrastructure that will form a marine industry precinct at East Arm, servicing larger vessels in defence, energy, pearling, fishing and coastal cruising. The NT Government-owned facility will provide wet and dry berths for vessel wash-down, blasting, painting and general maintenance facilities.
The Ship Lift will cement Darwin’s position as a regional hub for marine maintenance, servicing Northern Australia and South East Asia. It will create an opportunity to grow a thriving marine service and supply sector, creating hundreds of jobs and flow-on benefits for Territorians and local businesses.
Construction is expected to start in the second half of 2022, to be operational by late 2024.
Release of the draft EIS provides an opportunity for the public to view and comment on the submission. It can be viewed here: https://ntepa.nt.gov.au/consultation/open-consultations.
Submissions close 14 January 2022.
Quotes from Chief Minister Michael Gunner:
“The Ship Lift will be built here in the Territory creating jobs and growing businesses.
“The investment in this major national project means expanding our marine industry and providing new opportunities for businesses and for Territorians.
“It will also position our industry and capabilities on the international map, which will help us capitalise on future investment opportunities and continuing growing the economy.”