A massive load of fireworks bound for the Northern Territory has been caught up in a bureaucratic battle after the shipment was seized in NSW.

Darwin

Local businesses in Darwin are facing uncertainty over the timely arrival of fireworks for an upcoming major celebration in the Northern Territory. A shipment of approximately 100 tons of fireworks has been seized by authorities in New South Wales due to a lack of authorisation, as fireworks are banned in that state. The goods have since been redirected to regional New South Wales, incurring additional transportation costs.

The New South Wales Government has indicated a willingness to assist, provided the necessary permits are secured. However, businesses must also obtain permits from other states, such as Queensland or South Australia, to enable the safe passage of fireworks to the Northern Territory. Officials from Resource and Health Safety Queensland are reportedly working to expedite the permit process.

Fireworks intended for major public events have already arrived in the Northern Territory. With a limited time frame remaining, local businesses remain hopeful that the fireworks and related products will be available for both residents and tourists. Tourism operators highlight the economic importance of these festivities, noting that many customers and visitors come from interstate.



Northern Territory fireworks businesses have supplies halted

It's the most anticipated day on the Northern Territory calendar, but there are fears the July 1st celebrations won't go off with a bang this year. Local fireworks businesses are in limbo, unsure whether their supplies will arrive in time. I find it really really disappointing this has happened. The 100 ton shipment has been seized by New South Wales authorities. These goods have had to be redirected to regional New South Wales. That's a massive massive additional cost on top of the fireworks that needs to get absorbed. The vast majority is going to end up having to be paid by the consumers. The New South Wales Government claims they arrived without authorisation to a state where fireworks are banned. Safeworks looked at this, we don't want to deny Northern Territory their cracker night. We'll put in place the permits that they need but they'll also need to get permits from other states. That means asking either Queensland or South Australia for permission to pass through. I'm aware that the Queensland Government are working through Resource and Health Safety Queensland to expedite that matter. The Territory is a pretty wild place we wouldn't want to stop them having a good a good Territory New Year. Fireworks for the major events have arrived in the NT but with only six weeks to go businesses are hopeful the crackers and sparklers will arrive in time for locals and tourists to enjoy. It's a massive massive massive import into the Northern Territory for tourism dollars. The vast majority of our customers are from interstate. They bring massive amount of funds into the Northern Territory. Territorians pleading for their countrymen to not be party poopers. Laetitia Wallace for 10 News First.

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