Following significant private sector investment in subsea fiber optic cable and data center infrastructure, the Northern Territory of Australia and NEC have strengthened their partnership.
Northern Territory of Australia, NEC Australia and NEC Corporation have announced the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU).
The signing will strengthen the NEC and Northern Territory Government partnership to develop a sustainable innovation ecosystem and grow the Territory’s digital capabilities. It follows significant private sector investment in subsea fiber optic cable and data center infrastructure.
As part of the MoU, the parties will set out a framework and identify major areas for digital development in the Territory.
This agreement will also allow NEC to explore the use of its world-leading technologies, such as submarine cable systems, Open-RAN 5G, and Artificial Intelligence in the Territory, as well as building industry training opportunities for Territorians.
The partnership cements the Territory’s position as Northern Australia’s most advanced digital economy and leading tech hub, which will help expand local industry, create new opportunities for businesses and more jobs for Territorians.
As one of the largest employers outside of government in the Territory, NEC Australia consistently contributes to the local economy while also creating new digital career pathways through various developments and mentoring. The company currently employs 187 full-time staff across the Territory.
Growing the digital and tech industries is a key part of the Territory Government’s plan to grow the economy to AU$40 billion by 2030 and create more jobs.
Michael Gunner, Chief Minister, Northern Territory of Australia, said: “The Territory has an excellent relationship with NEC, with more than 180 locals employed across the Territory. This signing will see the next steps in place to continue working together to boost the Territory’s digital capabilities. Off the back of significant subsea cable and data center infrastructure announcements, the Territory is becoming a global destination for all things digital.”
Takayuki Morita, President and CEO, NEC Corporation, said: “NEC Corporation is very pleased to be entering this MoU with the Northern Territory Government. The Territory is emerging as a forward-thinking, technology-focused region and we are honored to be working closely with them to build a successful future.”
Mike Mrdak, Executive Chair and CEO, NEC ANZ, said: “NEC Australia has a long history working in the Northern Territory and we are excited to build on our success in the top end with this unique opportunity. This partnership underpins NEC’s vision to support governments who seek to provide citizen services and create a connected future for their people.”
“We look forward to helping the NT Government create a more connected, sustainable and smart future for the Northern Territory.”
