Jemena gives NT businesses a step-up

The Small to Medium Enterprises (SME) Business Investment Fund was set up following Jemena’s selection by the Northern Territory (NT) Government to build the 622 km NGP, which will connect Tennant Creek to Mt Isa in Queensland.

Deputy Chief Minister and Minister for Business Peter Styles said the $800 million project would create a wide range of opportunities, particularly for NT businesses.

“The SME Business Investment Fund is designed to build the capacity of local businesses, giving them better opportunity to secure contracts on the project,” said Mr Styles.

“Our vision for this project is that, upon completion, the Territory will have a critical piece of infrastructure linking NT gas with the east coast market, and that our SMEs will have gained additional experience and expertise, placing them in the best position to capitalise on future opportunities.

“Jemena and the Government have also signed a memorandum of understanding which sets out how we plan to work together to make our vision a reality.”

The fund will be available to eligible SMEs to access business development programs including business planning, improving tendering processes and mentoring.

“These will be available through the Department of Business or other relevant entities.

“We have a fantastic working relationship with Jemena and the work they are already doing to ensure Territory businesses benefit from the NGP, even before the first piece of pipe has been laid, is to be commended.”

NGP Project Director Jonathan Spink said Jemena was committed to maximising the use of NT goods, services and labour on the project and working to build local business capability.

“Jemena has made the fund available to both NT and Mount Isa based SMEs who can demonstrate their potential to supply goods or services to the project,” Mr Spink said.

“We are working closely with the NT Department of Business to implement the Fund and we acknowledge the significant and ongoing support provided by the NT Government.”

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