SA and NT sign co-operation agreement

The South Australian and Northern Territory governments have signed an agreement for greater co-operation on issues such as road infrastructure, international trade and helping disadvantaged children and people with disabilities.

South Australian Premier Jay Weatherill says SA and the Northern Territory have a strong history of co-operation, shared cultures and regions and combined strengths.

"This Agreement will enable us to take collective action across and beyond our borders that will benefit our people and communities," he said.

NT Chief Minister Michael Gunner said the partnership brought a level of co-operation that was unprecedented in Australian history.

"The priority areas identified under the first year of the agreement will focus on delivering very real benefits to the territory, with a focus on further developing our joint tourism products, critical road infrastructure and support to our most disadvantaged remote and regional communities," he said.

The deal was signed at a meeting between the premier and the chief minister in Alice Springs on Wednesday.

It commits the two leaders to meet once a year to set priorities for the next 12 months.