NT deputy chief minister promotes $40 billion data centre despite sister-in-law’s role at developer
Deputy chief minister Gerard Maley has championed a $40 billion hyperscale data centre project while his sister-in-law works for the developer, raising calls for clearer conflict-of-interest disclosures.
At a July 22 press conference, Gerard Maley, Northern Territory deputy chief minister and energy minister, unveiled a partnership granting Beetaloo Digital exclusive use of 185 hectares to build a $40 billion hyperscale data centre near Darwin. Bethaney Maley, his sister-in-law and former journalist, is employed by the developer in a strategic engagement capacity. Maley asserts he has made all required declarations under the Ministerial Code of Conduct, though he could not provide the specific documentation when asked.
The Centre for Public Integrity contends that the undisclosed family link could erode public confidence and urges greater transparency in ministerial disclosures. While the NT Disclosure Act does not mandate a public register entry for this relationship, the code requires ministers to consider perceived conflicts involving close family members. Further scrutiny arises from the Maleys’ joint shareholding in Ammarula Pty Ltd, a company that also appears in Maley’s 2024 register of interests.
Why it matters
Undisclosed family ties to a multibillion-dollar project risk eroding public trust in government decisions.
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