City of Darwin is continuing to invest in the critical infrastructure beneath our streets, with its 2025/26 stormwater renewal program complete and the 2026/27 $4.5 million program underway.
The program targets sections of Darwin's underground stormwater network identified through inspections and CCTV surveys as having failed, due to fail, or being in very poor condition and approaching the end of their serviceable life.
Lord Mayor Peter Styles said while stormwater infrastructure was largely out of sight, it was an essential part of keeping the city functioning.
"Much of the infrastructure our community relies on every day is underground and largely unseen, and City of Darwin has more than doubled its investment in our stormwater network as it is one of Council's most important responsibilities," Mr Styles said.
"Darwin has an extensive stormwater network beneath our roads, verges and public spaces, and we need to make sure we are investing in that network before ageing infrastructure creates bigger problems.
"City of Darwin uses CCTV technology alongside detailed inspections to view our underground stormwater pipes, understand their condition and identify where investment is needed most.
"It is about getting the fundamentals right and making responsible, long-term investments in the infrastructure Darwin depends on," he said.
The renewal program prioritises critical failures within the network and, where appropriate, replaces adjoining sections of pipe that are also in very poor condition.
This approach enables City of Darwin to undertake coordinated works and make the best use of its investment, rather than replacing individual sections in isolation.
Mr Styles said renewing Darwin's ageing stormwater infrastructure would continue to be an important focus for Council.
"Darwin is a growing city and we need infrastructure that can continue to serve our community well into the future," Mr Styles said.
"Investing in stormwater may not always be the most visible work we do, but it is essential work."
The 2025/26 stormwater renewal program was completed at the end of September, with the 2026/27 program underway at priority locations across Darwin.
