Australia Moves to Regain Control of Darwin Port from Chinese Ownership

On January 28, 2026, Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese reaffirmed the government's commitment to returning the Darwin Port, currently leased to the Chinese company Landbridge Group for 99 years, back to Australian ownership. This announcement comes amid warnings from Beijing regarding potential trade reprisals if the port's lease is terminated. The Northern Territory government sold the port to Landbridge for A$506 million in 2015, a decision that has faced criticism from the United States.

Australia committed to retaking ownership of Darwin port, Albanese saysAustralia Committed to Retaking Ownership of Darwin Port, Albanese SaysChina will step in if Australia moves to regain control of Darwin Port, envoy says

The lease of Darwin Port to Landbridge Group has been a contentious issue, particularly following the U.S. military's increased presence in the region, including the deployment of U.S. Marines in Darwin. The U.S. has expressed concerns over foreign ownership of critical infrastructure, which has fueled discussions in Australia about national security and sovereignty.

Australia committed to retaking ownership of Darwin port, Albanese says

During an official visit to Timor-Leste, Albanese stated, "We are committed to making sure that that port goes back into Australian hands because that is in our national interest." This sentiment reflects a broader strategy to enhance national security and reduce foreign influence over critical assets. In response, Chinese Ambassador to Australia Xiao Qian warned that Beijing would "take measures to protect the Chinese company's interests" if the Australian government forced a sale. He emphasized that the lease was obtained through legitimate market means and that any forced exit could impact Chinese investment and trade relations with Australia.

Australia Committed to Retaking Ownership of Darwin Port, Albanese Says

Critics of the Albanese government's plan have raised concerns about the potential economic repercussions of reclaiming the port. Xiao Qian indicated that such a move could adversely affect "substantive investment, cooperation, and trade" between Chinese companies and Australia. The Chinese foreign ministry reiterated that Landbridge's rights should be fully protected, highlighting the delicate balance Australia must maintain in its foreign relations.

China will step in if Australia moves to regain control of Darwin Port, envoy says

While the Australian government is focused on national interests, the Chinese government views the lease as a legitimate business transaction. This divergence in perspectives underscores the complexities of international trade and investment, particularly in sensitive sectors like infrastructure.

China will step in if Australia moves to regain control of Darwin Port, envoy says

• “We are committed to making sure that that port goes back into Australian hands because that is in our national interest,” — Anthony Albanese, Prime Minister of Australia

Australia Committed to Retaking Ownership of Darwin Port, Albanese Says

• “Should Landbridge be forced to leave that port, I think it might also affect the substantive investment, cooperation and trade between Chinese companies and that part of Australia,” — Xiao Qian, Chinese Ambassador to Australia

Australia Committed to Retaking Ownership of Darwin Port, Albanese Says

• “Their legitimate rights and interests should be fully protected,” — Guo Jiakun, Chinese Foreign Ministry Spokesperson

Australia Committed to Retaking Ownership of Darwin Port, Albanese Says

As discussions continue, the Australian government will need to navigate the implications of its decision on both national security and international relations. The outcome of this situation could set a precedent for future foreign investments in critical infrastructure within Australia.

Australia Committed to Retaking Ownership of Darwin Port, Albanese Says