What does it take for Northern Territory businesses to be opportunity ready?

That question was at the centre of a panel discussion held at the 'Opportunity Ready: Preparing NT Business for What’s Next' event hosted by the Department of Trade, Business and Asian Relations, which brought together leaders from across the Territory’s energy, resources and services sectors.

Facilitated by Energy Club NT’s CEO Stephanie Berlin, the session began with presentations from each panellist, who shared project updates, emerging opportunities and practical insights into how collaboration can strengthen local participation and support project development.

The discussion then moved from the major-project horizon to the practical realities of securing work. Panellists explored what operators, proponents and procurement teams expect from suppliers; the capability gaps that can hold businesses back; and the systems, certifications, safety performance and responsiveness needed to compete with confidence.

A clear message emerged: being opportunity ready is about more than knowing which projects are coming. It means understanding and clearly communicating your capability, investing in strong business and management systems, building a reliable track record, and engaging early with prospective partners and customers.

Collaboration was a recurring theme. Partnerships, joint ventures and stronger connections between local businesses, major contractors, project proponents, industry bodies and government can help Territory businesses scale, take on larger scopes of work and connect with global supply chains.

The panel also considered the workforce challenge ahead, including the importance of developing and retaining local talent, strengthening training pathways and making better use of the support, partnerships and resources already available across the sector.

Thank you to our panellists Martin White from Halliburton, Edward Wong from Tamboran Resources, Nasser El-Malak from Altrad, Andrew Meaney from RAM Services and Dr Amber Jarrett from Minerals Council NT for sharing their perspectives, project insights and practical advice, and to everyone who joined the conversation.

The takeaway: prepare early, communicate capability clearly and collaborate proactively. The opportunities ahead are significant and readiness will determine who is best placed to participate.