The Northern Territory maintains a very low unemployment rate and has a workforce participation rate that is well above the national average.  As such, there is a skills shortage in the Territory in many occupations.

The Department of Business and Employment works closely with Territory businesses to identify workforce needs, and strategically plans to address these needs. This includes developing employment programs to skill, attract and retain workers in the Northern Territory.

The Employment Strategy Discussion Starter is the first step in ensuring the new Employment Strategy for 2012 to 2015 aligns with the Territory’s needs, with a focus on maximising jobs and supporting businesses to grow through the opportunities presented by a range of major projects.

Jobs NT 2010-2012 is the overarching employment strategy that sets out the Northern Territory’s workforce targets to develop and skill a local workforce. The Northern Territory Occupation Shortages List is updated yearly.

The Department of Business and Employment does not offer a job placement service. If you are a jobseeker, please visit the NT Government's Careers in Government or Australia’s Northern Territory for a list of useful job links.