Minister for Aboriginal Affairs
Media Release EOI now out for Wadeye barge service
1 September 2025
The Northern Territory Government, on behalf of key stakeholders in the West Daly region, is today calling for Expressions of Interest (EOI) from experienced operators to provide regular freight barge services to Wadeye.
The Government is facilitating this EOI process on behalf of Wadeye stakeholders to find a new operator.
Wadeye is the largest remote Aboriginal community in the Northern Territory and a key service hub for surrounding communities.
With road access limited during the wet season, reliable barge services are critical for freight delivery.
Existing barge services to Wadeye ceased today, 1 September, as the result of a commercial decision by the former operator.
This EOI provides the opportunity for a new player to enter the Territory market, or for an existing provider to expand its services.
Barge operations are operated commercially and are not government funded contracts.
Minister for Aboriginal Affairs Steve Edgington said the community would not be left behind.
"I've been made aware that all major customers of the barge, including Wadeye's community store have locked in road transport for their freight requirements for the next 12 weeks," he said.
"In the meantime, we welcome expressions of interest to offer reliable barge services to Wadeye and surrounding communities."
Mr Edgington said he has also written to the Federal Government to highlight shared responsibilities consistent with the Commonwealth's commitments under the 'National Strategy for Food Security in Remote Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Communities 2025-2035'.
"The Territory Government would welcome additional Commonwealth support to resolve this situation to ensure food and fuel security for the people of Wadeye and the broader West Daly region."
