Finocchiaro CLP Government introduces legislation to put clear rules in place before the Darwin Ship Lift opens.
Bill provides for fair access, transparent pricing and independent oversight, holding the future operator accountable.
Gives Territory businesses confidence to invest, compete for work and create local jobs.
The Finocchiaro CLP Government is putting clear rules in place before the Darwin Ship Lift opens, with new legislation introduced today ensuring fair access, transparent pricing and independent oversight for every user.
The Marine Facilities (Access and Pricing) Bill 2026 would establish a regulatory framework for designated marine facilities, starting with the 5,500-tonne capacity Darwin Ship Lift.
The Northern Marine Complex at East Arm is the Territory’s first designated Territory Development Area, anchored by the ship lift, the Territory’s largest public infrastructure investment.
The Bill provides the framework for the common-user marine infrastructure at the Complex, supporting local jobs and opening up opportunities for Territory businesses.
The ship lift will operate as a common-user facility for local marine service providers and commercial vessel operators, with capacity to also service Defence and Australian Border Force vessels
Minister for Logistics and Infrastructure Bill Yan said the legislation would put clear rules in place ahead of the facility opening.
“As construction progresses, we are putting the arrangements in place now to ensure the ship lift operates fairly and transparently for everyone who needs to use it,” Minister Yan said.
“This gives users and service providers confidence to plan repairs and maintenance, invest, and compete for work, knowing clear rules and obligations are in place to support them.
The Bill would require fair access, published access terms and timely assessment of applications, while prohibiting conduct that unfairly disadvantages users or blocks access.
The independent Utilities Commission would also oversee access and pricing, starting with price monitoring.
Reporting requirements, protections for confidential information and processes for resolving disputes and complaints would provide further accountability.
Minister Yan said the legislation would give Territory businesses and the community confidence that the future operator would be held to clear obligations and independent oversight.
“Territory businesses and the community need confidence that the ship lift and broader marine facility will be run fairly and transparently.
“This Bill places clear obligations on the operator, backed by independent oversight, so users know what to expect and have a way to raise concerns.”
