NT council's China trade mission questioned amid cost-of-living crisis
Questions have been raised over Darwin City Council leading a delegation of businesses to China and Vietnam later this year, on a trip that will cost local ratepayers thousands of dollars.
Darwin's lord mayor, Peter Styles, is set to lead a delegation of businesses to China and Vietnam in an effort to boost the Top End's economy. The council has defended the decision, stating it is not a "junket" and will provide support for the delegation. The mission aims to open economic doors for the city, with about $18,000 in ratepayer funding allocated for the trip.
It is the first overseas delegation led by the council since 2023. The economic impact of such trade missions can bring approximately $250,000 annually into the economy. The delegation will include 10 businesses traveling to Guangzhou, China, and Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam, in December. While businesses will cover their own travel expenses, the council will facilitate introductions and networking opportunities with Asian businesses.
Lord mayor Peter Styles, a former NT government Asian engagement minister, previously held private consultancy businesses in the same field. Some residents have expressed concerns over the council's spending, particularly as rates have been raised and other services delayed.
Written by urgent.news from ABC News AU's reporting — not their text. Machine-written — may contain errors; check the original before relying on it.
