In November 2015, DFAT hosted an International Media Visit (IMV) with nine journalists from China, India, Indonesia, Japan, Korea, Singapore and the United Kingdom attending the Northern Australia Investment Forum in Darwin.

The IMV provided an opportunity to showcase trade and investment opportunities and the economic growth potential in Northern Australia, including activities promoting the long-term growth strategy set out in the Australian Government's White Paper on Developing Northern Australia.

Minister for Trade and Investment, Andrew Robb, gave the opening address.

The Northern Australia Investment Forum highlighted opportunities in Northern Australia to foreign investors, as well as initiatives designed to help business capitalise on the region's strengths.

The journalists also conducted site visits in the Northern Territory, Western Australia and Queensland and saw first hand the successful investments in the north, as well as emerging opportunities. This included the Port of Darwin, the ConocoPhillips operated Darwin Liquefied Natural Gas as well as the planned Project Sea Dragon prawn aquaculture project in the East Kimberley Region and the Aquis Great Barrier Reef Resort and casino project in Cairns.

A tour of the Australian Institute of Tropical Health and Medicine showcased cutting-edge innovation and research improving health outcomes in the region. The Great Barrier Reef Marine Park Authority spoke about Australia's work to protect and conserve the reef and promote sustainable tourism. The delegates also learned about Australia's gas and petroleum industries, opportunities in infrastructure and our agribusiness and aquaculture expertise.

The journalists were introduced to Australian culture and topography by learning about crocodile production and conservation, experiencing a bird's eye view of the Kimberley region, and receiving a welcome to country from the Yirrganydji representative.