Finance Minister Caroline Wawzonek has presented the Government of the Northwest Territories’ (GNWT) 2026‑2027 Main Estimates to the 20th Legislative Assembly.

Budget 2026‑27 proposes total spending of $2.724 billion, including $2.397 billion in departmental spending and $326 million in other adjustments, including infrastructure contributions, deferred maintenance, and the supplementary reserve. The budget increases the supplementary reserve to $210 million to accommodate further cost pressures, and emergency‑related needs. Budget 2026‑27 does not introduce new taxes. Several fees and some property mill rates will be indexed to inflation.

Total territorial debt is projected to reach $2.21 billion by March 31, 2027, remaining within the $3.1‑billion federal borrowing limit. The borrowing plan proposes shifting some short‑term borrowing to long‑term instruments to reduce exposure to market fluctuations.

The budget provides resources to support the priorities of the 20th Legislative Assembly, including investments in housing, health services, community safety, reconciliation initiatives, and economic development. These include support for emergency shelters, health service capacity, wildfire response, regulatory transitions under the Mineral Resources Act, and key labour force, language, and wellness programs.

Quote

“Budget 2026 is about momentum and partnerships. At a time of global uncertainty and real economic pressure, this budget shifts us from restraint to readiness, investing in people, strengthening essential services, and working together across governments to unlock the Northwest Territories’ full potential. A strong North builds a stronger Canada, and this budget positions us to help shape that future.”

— Caroline Wawzonek, Minister of Finance

Quick facts

• Total 2026‑27 spending is projected at $2.724 billion, including $2.397 billion in departmental spending and $326 million in adjustments.
• Total debt is projected at $2.21 billion by March 31, 2027, within the $3.1‑billion federal borrowing limit.
• Budget 2026‑27 includes no new taxes, with some fees and property mill rates indexed to inflation.
• Expenditure growth is limited to less than one per cent compared to the previous year.

Related links

• Budget 2026-2027

For media requests, please contact:
Beau Stobbs
Senior Communications Officer
Department of Finance
Government of the Northwest Territories
EIA_FINComms@gov.nt.ca