Kylie Simmons

Kylie Simmons, Senior Executive Assistant to the CEO at the Department of Industry, Tourism, and Trade (DITT) has called the Territory her home now for one year.

Kylie's transition to Darwin from Brisbane was prompted by her husband Ray's work meetings in August 2022. Impressed by Ray's skills, multiple government representatives encouraged their relocation. Kylie’s husband liked the idea and had a chat to his wife assuring Kylie of her own potential job prospects in the Territory noting her transferable skills gained from seven years in the Queensland Public Service.

"After applying for three jobs, I swiftly secured a position at DITT. Stepping foot in Darwin for the first time was the beginning of our new life in the Top End. The government sphere can present its challenges. My advice to those aspiring to join the NTG is to focus on making a positive contribution towards the success of the Territory. It's a fulfilling career path. A role within the Northern Territory Government has allowed me improved financial compensation, increased recreational leave, and recognition of my skills and experience.”

Kylie highlighted Darwin's vibrant culinary scene and the significance of the sky in Territory culture as her favourite aspects of the region.

"Darwin boasts an exceptional food culture, unrivalled by any other city in Australia. Additionally, the sky here is a captivating part of Territory life, never failing to impress, constantly changing, always beautiful.”

Reflecting on the challenges of relocation, Kylie acknowledged the costliness of moving to Darwin from elsewhere in Australia. However, she emphasised the support received from family and friends and the availability of affordable flights, such as those offered by Bonza Airlines starting in November, facilitating connections back to Brisbane.

"While I miss my loved ones in Brisbane, having my husband Ray, along with our cherished pets, Chilli the border collie and Minty the moggie, has made the transition smoother. We've also formed meaningful connections within the community.”

Praising the NT lifestyle, Kylie emphasised the ease of living in Darwin's CBD and the warmth extended by the locals, making her and Ray feel welcomed and at home.

“Ray and I live and work in Darwin CBD, so everything we need is within walking distance. Even when we need to drive somewhere, it’s all so accessible and easy to get to. We have been made to feel so welcome by everyone we’ve met over the past 12 months. More so than anywhere we’ve lived before, and between us we’ve lived in a lot of different regions of Australia. NT has its own special brand of laid-back that we really love.”