About Northern Territory
The Northern Territory (NT) is a vast federal territory in Australia, distinguished for its expansive Outback desert landscapes. Within the arid Red Centre region, one can encounter renowned natural marvels such as Uluru (Ayers Rock), Kata Tjuta’s red-rock domes, and the sculpted cliffs of Kings Canyon in Watarrka National Park. The remote town of Alice Springs serves as the gateway to the Red Centre desert and offers Aboriginal art galleries.
Spanning an area six times larger than Britain, the Northern Territory epitomizes the true essence of the outback. The region is celebrated worldwide for its breathtaking natural treasures, ancient Aboriginal culture, diverse birds and wildlife, striking landscapes, thrilling adventure opportunities, and vibrant local characters.
Lifestyle
The Northern Territory provides a dynamic and progressive environment while maintaining a relaxed and welcoming atmosphere. With over 100 nationalities coexisting harmoniously, the Territory embraces cultural diversity. Discover more about life in the Northern Territory.
Cost of Living
The cost of living in the Northern Territory can vary significantly depending on whether one resides in Darwin or a more regional location. While prices in Darwin are generally affordable compared to other major cities, rural areas may experience slightly higher costs due to the transportation of goods and services to remote locations.
Housing
Housing options in the Northern Territory are diverse, ranging from spacious houses and apartments to more compact living arrangements. In the tropical north, elevated houses with louvered windows and ceiling fans are customary. Sizeable outdoor living areas, verandas, and swimming pools are also common features.
Many houses boast tropical gardens adorned with lush foliage. In the southern areas, more traditional Australian house designs prevail, typically consisting of ground-level brick houses with wide shady verandas to mitigate heat. House and unit prices vary across the Northern Territory. For detailed information on housing costs, refer to the Real Estate Institute of the Northern Territory website. The Northern Territory Government offers incentives to support first-home buyers, and further information is available on the government’s website.
Hospitality and Tourism
Tourism is one of the fastest-growing industries in the Northern Territory. Over the years, visitor numbers have experienced an average annual growth rate of eight percent, with overseas visitors witnessing a growth rate of approximately 20 percent. Significant developments have been established throughout the Territory, from the heart of Australia to the Top End, including the Uluru (Ayers Rock – Mt Olga) Resort, Darwin and Alice Springs casinos, Plaza Hotels in Darwin and Alice Springs, Beaufort Hotel in Darwin, and Kakadu “Crocodile Motel” in Jabiru.
Prominent destinations for visitors include Kakadu National Park, Katherine Gorge, and Aboriginal cultural facilities managed by traditional owners in Melville Island, Kakadu, Arnhem Land, the Katherine Region, and Ipolera in the Centre. A wide range of accommodation options, from caravan parks to five-star hotels, caters to diverse preferences. Wilderness attractions, such as the Wilderness Lodge at Seven Spirit Bay on the Cobourg Peninsula and Kings Canyon, captivate nature enthusiasts. The Conservation Commission and the Tourist Commission collaborate to safeguard the Territory’s unique environmental and cultural resources while providing visitors with exceptional amenities.
