The Lawler Labor Government in the Northern Territory of Australia is actively driving economic development through the critical minerals industry. Two significant Memorandum of Understanding (MoUs) have been signed with Japanese energy giant, Japan Organisation for Metals and Energy Security (JOCMEC), aiming to enhance economic and strategic trade ties between the Northern Territory and Japan. The first MoU focuses on cooperation in various energy sectors, including natural gas, carbon capture and storage, and hydrogen production. The second MoU emphasizes collaboration in critical mineral supply chains, involving exploration, extraction, processing, and supply of minerals like nickel, cobalt, lithium, graphite, and rare earth elements. These agreements underline the strategic importance of the Northern Territory in the renewable energy transition and critical minerals supply chains, with a sector already worth $4.38 billion and employing over 5300 people. Government officials expressed optimism about strengthening partnerships with Japan, driving economic growth, creating job opportunities, and supporting responsible resource development for the global energy transition.