Darwin Major Business Group

Darwin Major Business Group (DMBG) has elected Sam Jeffries as its new Chair at its Annual General Meeting in Darwin tonight. Mr Jeffries, Executive General Manager of VTG Services, succeeds Steve Margetic AM , a Director of Sitzler, who has served as Chair since 2024 and will remain on the DMBG Board. Elysia Billingham , Centre Manager of Casuarina Square with Sentinel Property Group, has been appointed Deputy Chair, filling the position previously held by Mr Jeffries. Kamal Ali , a Director of Kolsen, continues as Treasurer. DMBG congratulates its incoming executive and recognises the outgoing executive for its service and achievements. Mr Jeffries, Ms Billingham and Mr Ali will serve alongside continuing directors Steve Margetic AM, Vicki-Leigh Lettice , Rob Porter , Dan Richards and Peter Savoff . During Mr Margetic’s chairmanship, DMBG strengthened its role as an independent business voice on the Territory economy. It commissioned annual AEC economic analysis and developed its What the Territory Needs responses, giving business and government a practical basis for addressing barriers to growth.  His tenure also saw DMBG transition to a company limited by guarantee in 2025, strengthen its governance and grow to 20 corporate members. The Group expanded its engagement with Territory and Commonwealth decision-makers on private investment, infrastructure, workforce, housing and opportunities for local businesses. DMBG also commissioned the member-funded Beetaloo Development Outlook, examining potential development over the next ten years and what the Territory needs to do to prepare. This work has progressed to member and stakeholder briefings ahead of a November launch. Mr Jeffries paid tribute to Mr Margetic’s contribution and the work of the outgoing executive. “Steve has given DMBG clear direction and a strong sense of purpose. He has encouraged members to put their experience and resources behind work that can help the whole Territory move forward,” Mr Jeffries said. “The independent economic reports and the Beetaloo Development Outlook are practical examples of that commitment. We thank Steve for his leadership and are pleased he will continue to contribute his experience on the Board.” Mr Jeffries said the incoming executive would build on that work with the continuing Board and members. “I am pleased to take on this role alongside Elysia and Kamal, supported by a Board whose members understand what it takes to invest, employ people and build businesses in the Territory.” “Our focus remains the whole Territory economy. We want investment to create lasting local jobs, stronger Territory businesses and opportunities for all Territorians, including Aboriginal Territorians.” Mr Margetic congratulated the incoming executive and thanked his fellow directors and members. “It has been a privilege to chair DMBG. What we have achieved has come from members being willing to contribute their time, knowledge and resources to the Territory’s future,” Mr Margetic said. “I congratulate Sam and Elysia on their appointments and thank Kamal for continuing as Treasurer. I look forward to supporting them and working with my fellow directors on the next stage of DMBG’s work.”

DMBG welcomes the progression of Google’s proposed Bosun subsea cable landing infrastructure in Darwin. Reliable international connectivity is essential economic infrastructure. It can strengthen Darwin’s ability to attract digital investment, support Territory businesses and build a more diverse economy. Realising that opportunity requires coordinated planning for connectivity, energy, water, land and workforce capacity. DMBG supports timely and rigorous assessment of the proposed works, with appropriate protection of the coastal environment and community access. This is an opportunity to strengthen the Territory’s connections to global markets and the foundations for future growth.