Overview
- Chinese ambassador Xiao Qian said Beijing would take measures to protect Landbridge if Australia forces a buyback, flagging possible effects on investment, cooperation and trade.
- Prime Minister Anthony Albanese reaffirmed that returning the port to Australian ownership is a national-interest priority, without announcing a timetable.
- Landbridge stated it does not wish to sell its interest in the facility, while saying it will engage with the government to understand its concerns.
- Officials said commercial negotiations are ongoing and national security assessments continue, with previous government reviews finding no grounds to cancel the lease outright.
- Northern Territory Chief Minister Lia Finocchiaro urged the federal government to end uncertainty over the port’s future, citing risks to local jobs and planned maritime growth.