Media Release from Shadow Minister for Tourism and Hospitality Marie-Clare Boothby:
In a significant blow to Darwin's cultural landscape, the iconic Deck Bar, renowned for its expansive outdoor deck space and culinary delights, has announced its permanent closure slated for mid-June.
Co-owner Jason Hanna confirmed the closure, citing a myriad of challenges, including a stagnant economy and escalating crime rates.
Despite being a cornerstone of Darwin's social scene for over two decades, the Deck Bar has succumbed to the harsh realities under Eva Lawler’s Government.
The Deckbar now joins an unenviable list of popular businesses that includes Allora Gardens, Char, The Gove Boat Club, and Strand Bags which have shut their doors since Territory Labor was elected 8 long years ago.
In just the last 12 months alone, ABS data from March 2023 to March 2024, showed 106 businesses closed their doors in the Territory.
Empty NT shop fronts serve as a reminder of Lawler’s failure to manage the economy, grow business investment, and create jobs for Territorians.
Only the CLP has a plan to grow our economy and make Territorians safe.
We want our small businesses to grow and thrive. But crime and cost of living is threatening to shut their doors for good. Many have already shut-up shop, having been let down by Labor.
The CLP has committed to raising the payroll tax-free threshold for the first time in 13 years from the current rate of $1.5 million to $2.5 million; and apprentice and trainee wages will also be exempt from payroll tax as part of the new $2.5 million threshold, saving businesses thousands of dollars more while encouraging them to invest in growing Territory apprenticeships and traineeships.
The CLP will streamline project approvals, abolish detrimental taxes, and support key industries. If elected in August, the CLP will ensure police powers are strengthened to enable them to protect our community and deliver consequences for offenders.
By rebuilding the Territory’s reputation as a safe place to live, work and invest we will create jobs and opportunities.
