For a nation where just 1.3 million peopleâ5.3 per cent of our populationâlive in the top 51 per cent of the nation, a casual observer could be forgiven for wondering why we’d prioritise the development of northern Australia. Surely it is too hot, too wet, too dry and too unpopulated to care about, but, for those of us who live, work, or invest in northern Australia, the reality is that it is the part of the nation that has the true potential to deliver the increase of food and fibre production, essential minerals for our new economy, unique and wonderful tourism destinations, defence placement and Indigenous community connections.