Darwin Port Tug-of-War: A High-Stakes Election Battleground
So, let’s talk about something that's shaping up to be one of the biggest political flashpoints leading into the 2025 federal election — the Port of Darwin. Yep, that same port which quietly slipped into Chinese hands nearly a decade ago is now back in the headlines, and both Prime Minister Anthony Albanese and Opposition Leader Peter Dutton are scrambling to reclaim it. And let’s be honest, the timing couldn’t be more deliberate.
Now, just a quick rewind: back in 2015, the Northern Territory government — under the Country Liberal Party — leased the Port of Darwin to a Chinese company called Landbridge Group for 99 years. The deal was worth $506 million, but what followed was a storm of national security concerns, public backlash, and even an eyebrow raise from then-US President Barack Obama, who wasn't thrilled about not being informed beforehand.
Fast forward to today — a lot has changed. Global politics have shifted. Australia’s relationship with China has grown more complicated, and suddenly, what seemed like a financial quick fix back then is now seen as a strategic vulnerability. Especially given the port's proximity to the Larrakeyah Defence Precinct — a major hub for Australian and allied military operations.
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So here we are, with Peter Dutton promising that, if the Coalition wins, they'll take decisive action. He’s pledging to return the port to Australian control, either by selling it to a local operator or — if that fails — by compulsorily acquiring it within six months. That’s a bold move, considering it was his side of politics that allowed the lease in the first place.
On the other hand, Anthony Albanese isn’t staying quiet either. In fact, he made a spontaneous call to ABC Radio Darwin to make sure everyone knew Labor has been quietly working behind the scenes on this. He says they’re already exploring options with potential buyers, particularly through Australian super funds. And if a buyer can’t be found? He’s not ruling out bringing the port back under government ownership.
Albanese stressed that the lease never should’ve happened and that Darwin’s port holds massive untapped potential — not just strategically, but economically too. More exports, more regional development — that’s the vision he’s painting. Meanwhile, NT Labor MP Luke Gosling stirred the pot earlier this year with cryptic hints about changes to the port deal, causing the NT government to lash out over the uncertainty.
And let's not forget — this all comes against a backdrop of rising military tensions in the region. Earlier this year, Chinese warships were spotted conducting live fire exercises within Australia’s economic zone. And then, not long after, a US nuclear sub casually rolled into Darwin Harbour, docking alarmingly close to the Landbridge-controlled area.
Add to that the recent PwC audit raising red flags over Landbridge’s financial stability, and suddenly, both sides of politics are scrambling to look tough, strategic, and most importantly — in control.
So yeah, this isn’t just about a port anymore. It’s about national pride, regional security, and election optics. And with May 3rd closing in fast, you can bet the Port of Darwin will stay a hot button issue right up until voters hit the polls.
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