Pirlangimpi Road on Melville Island is being upgraded to support industry and economic growth in the Tiwi Islands region with the announcement of a tender released to market today.
The works are part of a $75 million joint investment between the Australian and Northern Territory governments to upgrade key roads, linking the townships of Pirlangimpi, Pickertaramoor and Paru to the boat ramp that connects with the communities and services on neighbouring Bathurst Island.
A contract is expected to be awarded early 2027 with construction expected to begin July 2027 during the dry season for completion by December 2028 (weather permitting).
The Pirlangimpi Road upgrade has been identified as a priority through stakeholder consultations and by the Tiwi Islands Roads Investment Strategy.
Works in this package include realigning and sealing 15 kilometres of the road, as well as installing culverts and road safety barriers, improving flood immunity during the wet season and road safety outcomes.
Pirlangimpi Road will remain accessible for the duration of the works, with speed restrictions, lane closures and detours in place.
The Australian Government has committed $60 million towards the road upgrades on Melville Island, with the Northern Territory Government committing $15 million.
Quotes attributable to Federal Infrastructure, Transport, Regional Development and Local Government Minister Catherine King:
"This joint investment by the Australian and Northern Territory governments in road upgrades for Melville Island will improve connectivity and flood resilience.
"Because of these upgrades, the local community will benefit from new jobs created by the project and the safer, all-weather access roads they deserve."
Quotes attributable to Northern Territory Minister for Logistics and Infrastructure Bill Yan:
"Pirlangimpi Road is critical economic infrastructure for the Tiwi Islands, supporting the Tiwi-owned plantation industry, the growth of the local economy and prosperity of local communities.
"Upgrading this road will provide the safer and more reliable freight connection needed to support continued growth and future investment."
Quotes attributable to Federal Minister for Indigenous Australians Malarndirri McCarthy:
"Upgrading Pirlangimpi Road will improve connections between Melville Island communities and access to the boat ramp, which is an important link to services on Bathurst Island.
"Strengthening the road against flooding will improve safety and reliability in the wet season, supporting economic opportunities across the Tiwi Islands."
Quotes attributable to Federal Member for Lingiari Marion Scrymgour:
"Tiwi Islands is in desperate need of quality road infrastructure; this is something for which the Tiwi Islands Regional Council and our communities have long been advocating.
"This package is a hugely important one, and I am excited to see it rolled out.
"However, there are several significant roads that also need further resourcing on Tiwi, particularly when it comes to waste management on the island."
