National recognition for Tourism and Events NT's AI Innovation

Father Holds his young son as they look up to a World War 2 era fighter jet at the Darwin military museum

Tourism and Events NT (TENT) has been named a national finalist in the Customer Experience category of the 2026 Australian Financial Review AI Awards, recognising its innovative use of artificial intelligence to elevate visitor engagement and promote the Northern Territory’s military heritage.

TENT’s finalist selection centres on its Military AI Trip Planner, a conversational planning tool developed under the Plot Your Course Through History campaign. The platform enables travellers to build personalised itineraries based on their interests, travel duration and starting point, drawing on curated content to highlight the Territory’s extensive wartime history.

As part of the Northern Territory Government’s 10‑year Military Tourism Strategy, the Trip Planner connects visitors with museums, heritage sites, tours and experiences across Darwin, Katherine, Central Australia and surrounding regions. The initiative aims to grow military tourism, support local operators and strengthen national awareness of the Territory’s wartime significance.

TENT was one of six finalists in the Customer Experience category, with Ecko Health named the overall winner on Tuesday night. Now in its second year, the Australian Financial Review AI Awards recognise excellence in the development and application of artificial intelligence across Australia.

Tourism and Events NT's finalist recognition places the organisation among leading innovators using AI to deliver meaningful outcomes and enhanced customer experiences.

For a full list of finalists and winners of the Australian Financial Review AI Awards, visit: www.afr.com