The APPEA Conference and Exhibition provides delegates with a great opportunity to hear the latest news, views and debates in the oil and gas industry. It's also a great opportunity to enjoy some of the famous tourist attractions of Darwin and the territory.

The Northern Territory has long been a destination for the intrepid tourist but it's now also emerging as an outstanding destination for business.

The gas industry has been long associated with the Northern Territory - powered by gas for nearly 25 years from the Amadeus basin fields of Mereenie and Palm Valley, both operated by Santos and Magellan. The LNG industry has a short but significant history in Darwin with the local LNG plant being operated by ConocoPhillips since 2006 and the city is expecting a significant boost with the imminent arrival of INPEX which has chosen Darwin as its gateway to the Asian market.

My government is committed to building on Darwin's reputation as a regional LNG hub, and we are strong supporters of the industry in the territory.This goal has been given a significant boost, with the INPEX decision to proceed with the detailed design and engineering work for its Darwin LNG processing facility.

The three days of this conference will provide you with an excellent opportunity to mix with your peers and hear how the upstream oil and gas industry is opening new frontiers in exploration, financing and technology.

Meanwhile it would be a shame to come to Darwin and not enjoy the best the country has to offer in seafood and entertainment. Remember the Northern Territory is Australia's real Outback and home to the iconic natural wonders of Kakadu National Park and Uluru.

I hope you enjoy Darwin and the spirit of the Australian outback during your stay.

The Hon Paul Henderson, MLA
Chief Minister for the Northern Territory