Minister Cahill leads Territory engagement at inaugural Darwin-Dili Business and Investment Summit
Program to grow trade and investment between the Territory and our nearest neighbour
ASEAN membership opens new doors for Territory businesses
The Minister for Trade, Business and Asian Relations, Robyn Cahill, is travelling to Timor-Leste for the inaugural Darwin-Dili Business and Investment Summit and Invest Timor-Leste 2026.
The four-day program is delivered by the Property Council of Australia (NT), the Australian Government, and the Timor-Leste Government. It brings Australian delegates together with Timorese public and private sector representatives to drive trade and investment across the region.
The Territory is Australia’s closest jurisdiction to Timor-Leste and has capability in the sectors that matter most to Timor-Leste’s economic plans, including infrastructure, education and training, agribusiness, tourism, and professional services.
The 2023-2027 Strategic Partnership Agreement between the Territory and Timor-Leste underpins this work. It has strengthened government-to-government ties, supported trade and investment missions, and expanded education and training links between our communities.
Minister Cahill said Timor-Leste’s entry into ASEAN made the relationship more important than ever.
“The Northern Territory sees Timor-Leste as a valued neighbour and an increasingly important strategic and economic partner,” Minister Cahill said.
“Our location and deep community connections make the Territory a natural partner and gateway for engagement. As ASEAN’s newest member, Timor-Leste is creating opportunities well beyond the size of its domestic market, and Territory businesses are well placed to take part.”
Minister Cahill thanked the Property Council for its role.
“The Property Council has created an important platform for engagement between the Territory and Timor-Leste. The Summit and Invest Timor-Leste will open new pathways for investment, expand commercial connections and build greater economic integration across our region,” Minister Cahill said.
The Darwin-Dili Business and Investment Summit runs from 27 to 30 October and includes market briefings, senior industry speakers and site visits to businesses operating in Dili. Invest Timor-Leste 2026 runs from 28 to 29 October, with plenary sessions, business-to-government dialogue, and business matching.
While in Dili, Minister Cahill will also meet Timor-Leste Government representatives to discuss the next stage of the government-to-government relationship.
Travel costs for the Minister and one advisor is $5,150. Final costs will be reported in line with standard reporting processes.
