$7M Kirkland Rd Upgrade Boosts Safety, Eases Traffic

NT Government

4 May 2026

The Finocchiaro CLP Government has announced a $7 million investment in the 2026/27 budget to deliver a new roundabout at the intersection of Kirkland Road and Woodlake Boulevard in Durack, improving road safety and easing congestion in a growing area of Greater Darwin.The upgrade will replace the existing T-junction with a modern roundabout, addressing a concerning crash history while improving traffic flow and travel time, particularly during peak periods.

The project will reduce day-to-day costs for Territory families and businesses and ensure goods move more safely and efficiently via the Darwin Port.

The Finocchiaro CLP Government is delivering a safer, and more efficient driving experience through Durack, with $7 million in funding in the 2026/27 Budget to deliver a new roundabout at the intersection of Kirkland Road and Woodlake Boulevard.

The project, scheduled for delivery in the 2026-27 financial year, will replace the existing T-junction with a roundabout designed to improve traffic flow and reduce the risk and severity of crashes.

Minister for Logistics and Infrastructure, Bill Yan, said the project responds directly to community safety concerns and increasing traffic demand in the area.

"This is a practical, long-term solution that will make a real difference for people using this intersection every day," he said.

"We know this site has a concerning crash history, and this upgrade will significantly improve safety by reducing conflict points and lowering the likelihood and impact of collisions."

Between 2015 and 2025, the intersection recorded 70 crashes, including 18 injury crashes, highlighting the urgent need for improvement.

The new roundabout is expected to deliver smoother traffic flow, particularly during peak periods, reducing delays and improving travel time reliability for commuters.

"By easing congestion and cutting travel times, this project will also help reduce day-to-day costs for Territory families and businesses," he said.

"Importantly, the design recognises the road's function as a freight corridor to Darwin Port, helping to keep goods moving safely and efficiently.

"Kirkland Road forms part of the Over Size and Over Mass (OSOM) freight route making it a critical link for industry and the Territory economy," he said.

The project is expected to support around 38 full-time equivalent jobs during construction, providing a boost to local employment and economic activity.

"This investment is about safer roads, supporting local jobs, strengthening our economy and building infrastructure that keeps the Territory moving during our year of growth, certainty and security," he said.

Once completed, the upgraded intersection will deliver safer travel, fewer disruptions caused by crashes, and improved reliability for both the community and freight operators.

The NT Budget will be handed down tomorrow, 5 May.

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