Darwin is a modern capital city highly valued by its diverse and highly multicultural population, with a strong position in business and industry.
Darwin is arguably Australia’s most cosmopolitan city, boasting a population made up of people from more than 60 nationalities.
The city’s multicultural mix is particularly highlighted by its many exciting cultural festivals and weekly food and craft markets.
Darwin is treasured country to its traditional owners, the Larrakia people, who are prominent and active members of the local community. Many still adhere closely to their traditional beliefs and customs.
Relaxed yet sophisticated
Darwin has evolved from its days as an incredibly laid back frontier town and while it still retains its relaxed charm, it has become a highly sophisticated city. Many visitors are surprised to find that it has accommodation, eateries, clubs, pubs, museums and other amenities that are at least equal to, and often better than, what you’ll find in the southern cities.
In business and industry circles, Darwin is described as Australia’s gateway with South East Asia. It’s closer to the Indonesian capital of Jakarta than it is to Canberra, and is about the same flying time from Singapore and Manila as it is from Sydney and Melbourne.
Darwin is the main service centre for a wide range of industries headed by mining, offshore oil and gas production, pastoralism, tourism and tropical horticulture. The Port of Darwin is also the main outlet for Australia’s live cattle export trade into South East Asia.