Former Northern Territory treasurer Dave Tollner has defended the controversial 99-year lease of the Darwin Port to Chinese-owned Landbridge, claiming that any attempts by the federal government to reverse this decision would be 'a waste of money.' Tollner's remarks come amidst rising scrutiny and debate regarding the geopolitical implications of the lease, which has become a focal point in discussions about foreign ownership of critical infrastructure in Australia.

The lease, established in 2015 at a cost of $506 million, has faced significant criticism as concerns mount over national security and foreign influence in Australia. Despite the backlash, Tollner maintains that if given the chance, he would 'absolutely' make the same decision again, emphasizing the importance of moving the government's focus from trying to reclaim the port to considering the establishment of a new defense facility near Darwin. This perspective highlights a potential shift in priorities from merely scrutinizing existing agreements to proactively developing defense capabilities in the region.

Tollner's comments reflect broader tensions within Australian politics regarding infrastructure leases and national security. The conversation surrounding Darwin Port resonates with ongoing discussions on foreign investments in key sectors and raises questions about balancing economic benefits with strategic sovereignty. As the issue continues to evolve, the government's next steps regarding the port's lease and potential defense initiatives will be closely watched by both domestic and international observers.