Thomson Ch'ng
Senior Project Officer for Study NT, Department of Trade, Business and Asian Relations
A husband, father, public speaker, project manager and former international student who’s originally from Malaysia but is now proud to call Australia and the NT home.
How I fell in love with the Northern Territory - Surprises, Sunsets and Laksa.
Thomson Ch'ng has lived many lives across many cities. Born and raised in Penang, Malaysia, he spent 16 years building his career in Sydney before a new opportunity led him somewhere unexpected: Darwin, in Australia's Northern Territory. Six months in, he's not looking back.
Thomson works as a Senior Project Officer for Study NT, within the Department of Trade, Business and Asian Relations, helping promote the NT as a study destination and supporting international students who call the Territory home - a role that feels personal, given his own journey as a former international student.
"People are recognised as individuals here. Students, colleagues and partners aren't just entries in a spreadsheet. They are people with stories and ambitions."
That sense of belonging extended beyond the office. When Thomson first arrived, Darwin happened to be hosting its annual International Laksa Festival. For someone of Malaysian heritage, the moment hit differently.
"Laksa carries memories of home, family and culture. Seeing something so closely tied to my background woven into Darwin's identity was both unexpected and heartwarming. This city doesn't just host cultures. It embraces them."
After years in Sydney, Thomson’s lifestyle shift has been significant. Shorter commutes, a tight-knit community, free public transport, and sunsets at Nightcliff Jetty that stop him in his tracks.
"As the sun dips into the sea, the sky transforms into layers of orange, pink, and deep purple. People gather along the jetty, families, friends, visitors, and locals, all pausing to watch the same moment unfold. It quickly became one of the highlights of my time here so far."
A husband, father and public speaker, Thomson has found the NT offers something that fast-paced city life rarely does: time, space and the freedom to fully embrace who you are.
"Living in NT has enhanced the quality of my life, thanks to the supportive community and the lifestyle". His advice to anyone sitting on the fence?
"If you've lived in major cities and fast-paced environments and are looking for a change, consider the Northern Territory. If you enjoy short getaways to Southeast Asia, the NT is the ideal place to be."
Thomson did exactly that, and he's very glad he did.
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