CANBERRA, Sept 12 (NNN-AAP) – Crocodile farming and the native bush food industry, will be key to growing the economy of Australia’s Northern Territory (NT), under a new plan.
The NT government today released the Top End Region Economic Growth Plan 2022-2030, outlining opportunities to help achieve the goal of a 40-billion-Australian dollar (27.3-billion U.S. dollar) economy.
It features a strong focus on agriculture, tourism, resources and energy growth possibilities, in remote areas of the NT.
For the Tiwi Islands, off the north coast of the NT, it identified a planned crocodile hatchery, aquaculture and the buffalo industry as major opportunities.
“Tiwi Enterprises will construct and operate the hatchery, with the eventual aim, in year 2, to take in 2,100 eggs for incubation,” the report said.
It said, an aquaculture prospectus had been created, to promote potential areas for aquaculture development of different species, including prawns, barramundi and oysters.
“Approximately 18,000 head of buffalo live on the Tiwi Islands. Feasibility planning is underway, to develop the industry, including safari-style tourism, live buffalo exports and developing a meatworks that would service the local population and crocodile farm.”
According to a report published by national science agency, the Commonwealth Scientific and Industrial Research Organisation (CSIRO), in March, Australia has the potential to become a world-leading protein exporter.
It identified the export of non-traditional protein sources, such as, edible insects, as a significant growth opportunity.
The NT report said, such opportunities were being explored by some businesses.
“Initiatives include developing Kakadu plum orchards and exploring the commercialisation of other bush foods found in the country,” it said.
NT Chief Minister, Natasha Fyles, said today that, with a focus on agribusiness, resources, tourism, energy transition, construction and civil works, the plan sets out a pathway to create local jobs, economic growth and attract private investment.– NNN-AAP
