Media Release

Crocs snapping up big bucks for the Territory

26 September 2025

As part of the Finocchiaro CLP Government’s year of action, certainty and security, we are backing the Territory’s world-renowned crocodile industry to grow sustainably, create regional jobs and remain a global leader in Saltwater Crocodile products.

Crocodiles aren’t just an iconic part of the Northern Territory - they’re powering our economy too. A new report estimates the industry will contribute $151 million in 2025, supporting more than 300 jobs.

The Economic Value of the Northern Territory’s Crocodile Industry review, developed with the Crocodile Farmers Association of the NT and undertaken by Ernst & Young, outlines three growth scenarios that could see the industry’s contribution rise to between $176 million and $243 million by 2035.

Acting Chief Minister and Minister for Agriculture and Fisheries Gerard Maley said the CLP Government is committed to supporting the continued success of the crocodile industry.

“Crocodiles are an iconic feature of the Northern Territory’s landscape, culture and economy, with around 90 per cent of Saltwater Crocodile skins produced here in the NT,” Mr Maley said.

“Our crocodile industry is world-renowned, not just for the quality of its skins, but also for its innovation, research partnerships, and responsible farming practices.

“It is also a major contributor to opportunities in our regions, particularly through Aboriginal group partnerships in egg harvesting, habitat conservation and wildlife monitoring.

“We are proud to support this industry so it can grow sustainably, maintain world-leading standards in animal welfare and environmental management, and deliver strong outcomes for Territorians.”

Crocodile Farmers Association of the NT Chairman Mick Burns said the review confirms the strength of the sector and its future potential.

“CFANT was established in 2009 to provide an important and united forum dedicated to advancing best practice, innovation and strategic growth across the NT crocodile farming industry,” Mr Burns said.

“From humble beginnings, the Territory’s crocodile industry has evolved, and will continue to grow, as a significant contributor to the NT economy.

“We are proud to be globally recognised as a responsible and innovative industry, demonstrating world-best practices in sustainable farming.”

“With this latest economic review and strategic vision, we’re confident the NT crocodile industry can reach new markets, attract investment, and continue to deliver strong outcomes for regional communities and the environment.”

The report highlights three potential growth pathways for the NT crocodile industry:

• A stabilised pathway, assuming steady demand and limited diversification, could see the industry’s economic contribution reach $176 million by 2035.
• A medium growth pathway, based on incremental expansion, could grow the sector’s contribution to $215 million.
• The highest growth pathway involves broadening markets, including new opportunities in Asian food and traditional medicine, domestic demand for crocodile meat, and innovative branding strategies, with investment and new farm development potentially lifting the industry’s contribution to $243 million by 2035.

Following the release of the industry-led Northern Territory Crocodile Farming Industry Strategic Plan 2024-33, this economic review reaffirms the Territory Government’s commitment to supporting the crocodile industry as it grows, innovates and strengthens its contribution to the NT economy and lifestyle.

To view the report, visit the website here. 

Media contact: Elle Arnold - 0408 663 361

Minister Gerard Maley at Crocodylus Park with Jess and Grahame