The Federal Government has released another green paper covering some ideas for development in the northern half of Australia.

It is one of many similar policy outlines to come in recent times, as successive Governments dance around the release of a concrete plan for development in the north.

The latest green paper touches on promoting business, Indigenous relations and water infrastructure primarily.

The idea to establish “special economic zones” is back again, as it has been a strong part of government discussion so far.

Such special zones exist in many countries, and their business-friendly, deregulated environments account for over $500 billion in global trade.

The paper accepts there are some constraints in delivering such a policy under Australia's Constitution, but raises the idea for discussion regardless.

Improving water infrastructure has always been key to and notion of development in the north, with discussion ongoing about dams and irrigation options.

The Government has tasked CSIRO with a ‘rapid’ study of river catchments and other sites, to identify potential spots for dams or storage.

Some authorities say that the final White Paper would only work if fundamental infrastructure projects, like fast broadband and better roads, are included.

More documents talking about doing something in the North are expected in coming months.