Department of Regional Development, Primary Industry, Fisheries and Mines
Placeholder for NTG rose logo.

News and Features



Tennant Creek Economic Profile




Tennant Creek Economic Profile

Print this Page

return to Barkly Region

Tennant Creek Economic Profile

This Profile provides a complete picture of Tennant Creek and the surrounding region’s economy, its industry sectors, business strengths and investment opportunities.

There are four main industries in the area: mining; agriculture, forestry and fishing; government administration and defence; and health and community services. These industries account for 58% of the total activity in the region.

There are more than 133 businesses in Tennant Creek, with the majority employing fewer than 19 people. Of these:

  • 49% of businesses expect profit to increase in 2010
  • 57% of businesses expect sales to increase in 2010
  • 51% of businesses expect to increase their wage bill in 2010

Other key findings are:

  • Seven industries contribute 52% of total activity in the region.
  • Two key seasonal periods: weakest January – March, highest April – September
  • Average taxable income in Tennant Creek region is about 10% below NT.

This is the third economic profile to be developed in a Territory regional community. Business Surveys have been conducted in Alice Springs and Katherine with both communities benefiting from the development of an Economic Profile for their regional centres.

Speaking at the launch of the Profile, the Chair of the Tennant Creek Economic Development Committee (TCEDC), Dawn McCarthy acknowledged the importance of not only the Profile itself, but of all the work that went in to producing the document.

"Todays launch has been about recognising community initiatives, the team work of the TCEDC and the contribution of the NT Government in developing the Tennant Creek Economic Profile, a resource to stimulate investment in Tennant and the Barkly."

A snapshot brochure, the Tennant Creek: at a Glance, is also available and provides an overview of the regions economic profile and is a useful tool for business investors and government agencies alike.