The Federal Government says it has postponed this year's deployment of US Marines to Darwin because of restrictions designed to slow the spread of COVID-19.
The 2020 rotation was expected to bring about 2,500 US troops to the Top End in the next few weeks, a similar number to last year's peak rotational force.
Defence Minister Linda Reynolds said Australia and the US would discuss options for a possible later deployment, which would be subject to conditions improving and the deployment's viability.
"Any decision in relation to the 2020 Marine Rotational Force — Darwin (MRF-D) in no way affects Australia's commitment to host next year's, or subsequent, MRF-D rotations," Ms Reynolds said in a statement.
Northern Territory Chief Minister Michael Gunner said he spoke with the Defence Minister about the matter over the weekend.
"This is the right decision," he said
"When we're on the other side of this crisis, I know Territorians will welcome back the Marines with open arms."
Ms Reynolds said she would continue her discussions with the Chief Minister.
"I remain fully engaged with Northern Territory Chief Minister Michael Gunner on this matter," she said.
"I have also reiterated to Chief Minister Gunner that the Morrison Government is committed to supporting the Australian defence industry during this difficult time, including businesses in the Northern Territory."
In a statement last week, an Australian Defence Force spokesperson said the department would continue to follow advice issued by the Health Department on COVID-19 and implement preventative measures.
"This is important for the protection of Defence personnel and critical operations, as well as for the wellbeing of the Australian public more broadly," the spokesperson said.
The spokesperson said the joint US Defence facility Pine Gap was also adapting its policy and procedures to comply with Federal Government restrictions.
