CDU wins gold at NT Export and Business Awards

Charles Darwin University (CDU) has won the International Education and Training Export Award at the 2026 Northern Territory Export and Business Awards.

The annual awards celebrate the outstanding achievements of Territory businesses, entrepreneurs and exporters, and this year attracted a record-breaking 439 nominations from across the NT.

CDU Interim Vice-Chancellor and President Professor Fiona Coulson said the award recognised the University's contribution to international education and its role in supporting communities, industries and workforce development across Northern Australia.

“This recognition belongs to our staff, our partners and most importantly our international students, who choose the Northern Territory as the place to build their future,” Professor Coulson said.

“While growth is encouraging, it's not about the numbers I am most proud of. It’s the students we are educating and the contribution they make to our communities.

“Many of our international students are studying in areas of significant workforce demand, including nursing, allied health, education, engineering and IT, helping address skills shortages across Northern Australia.

“They contribute to our economy and community while they study, and many go on to build careers and lives in the Territory, strengthening our workforce and supporting local industries.”

Carrying this momentum, Professor Coulson said the University was investing in new markets and international capability across Indonesia, Vietnam, Southeast Asia, and China.  

"International education is a remarkable industry for the Territory, and we are working hard to ensure it continues delivering positive outcomes for our students, our economy and our community,” Professor Coulson said.  

CDU's performance will also be considered for national recognition at the Canberra awards ceremony in November.