HIA Executive Director Luis Espinoza said recognising housing as essential economic infrastructure was critical as the Territory prepares for a period of significant investment and expansion.

"The release of the Housing Strategy demonstrates the Government understands the important role housing will play in supporting economic growth, attracting workers and maintaining the Territory lifestyle," Mr Espinoza said.

"Housing supply remains one of the Northern Territory's most pressing economic and social challenges. Acknowledging the scale of the problem is an important first step, but success will ultimately depend on delivering practical outcomes that increase supply and improve affordability."

Mr Espinoza said the Government had already introduced several positive housing initiatives during its first two years in office, including the HomeGrown Territory Grant, the release of Crown land at Holtze, investment in enabling infrastructure at Farrar West in Palmerston and the establishment of a taskforce focused on reducing regulatory barriers to housing development.

"These initiatives are helping create the conditions needed to increase housing supply, but more work remains to be done if we are to meet future demand."

HIA said workforce shortages continue to constrain housing delivery and called on the Northern Territory Government to maintain its advocacy for improved migration pathways and visa settings that encourage skilled workers to settle in the Territory.

"The construction industry needs more skilled workers if we are going to build the homes required to support population growth and major economic projects," Mr Espinoza said.

"Recent population growth has been encouraging but it has not been enough to resolve the workforce shortages being experienced across the building sector."

With major developments in the Beetaloo Basin gas sector and critical minerals industries expected to drive economic activity, Mr Espinoza said ensuring adequate housing supply will be essential to securing long-term benefits for Territory communities.

"The Northern Territory has a unique opportunity to maximise the economic and social benefits that major projects can deliver," Mr Espinoza said.

"Without a plan to accommodate workers and their families, there is a risk more jobs will be filled on a fly-in, fly-out basis rather than supporting permanent population growth and stronger local communities."

Mr Espinoza said the Territory remained well positioned for future growth and encouraged government, industry and communities to work together to ensure housing supply keeps pace with demand.

"The Territory continues to offer significant opportunities for people looking to live, invest and build their future," he said.

"The real test of this strategy will be its ability to deliver more homes, support population growth and create lasting opportunities for Territorians."

HIA also called on the Government to maintain transparency throughout implementation of the strategy and continue engaging closely with industry, local communities and regional stakeholders to ensure housing solutions reflect local needs.

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