5 March 2023
The Northern Territory Government has awarded a contract to improve road safety and accessibility on the Tiwi Islands.
Local Aboriginal Business Enterprise, Tiwi Partners Pty Ltd was awarded the $28 million contract to upgrade Paru Road on Melville Island.
Works include upgrading and sealing Paru Road from chainage 4.0 kilometres to chainage 12.3 kilometres, including the barge access road.
A bridge will be constructed over Paru Creek crossing with a realignment of the road to remove the sharp bend at this location.
This will enable a fully sealed road from the Paru barge landing to the Threeways intersection.
Tiwi Partners anticipate 64 employees will help deliver the project, including 23 Indigenous workers, four apprentices, two of which are Indigenous.
Works are expected to commence in April 2023 and anticipated to be completed by December 2024. Paru Road will remain accessible for the duration of the works.
It's part of a $75 million dollar investment, in partnership with the Australian Government, to upgrade Paru Road, Pickertaramoor Access Road and Pirlangimpi Access Road on Melville Island over a number of years.
Quotes attributed to Chief Minister Natasha Fyles:
"The Territory Labor Government is creating a pipeline of work to keep businesses moving and locals employed.
"Work to seal Paru Road, and the construction of a bridge, will allow for all year access.
"Sealing roads in the Territory means less wear and tear on cars and trucks, it improves safety for road users and opens up the Territory for all Territorians."
Quotes attributed to Minister for Infrastructure, Planning and Logistics, Eva Lawler:
"The Northern Territory Government is committed to improving infrastructure for all Territorians, and creating jobs for locals.
"Sealing Paru Road, and the barge access road and constructing a new bridge will improve road safety and flood immunity for residents of Melville Island.
"It will also facilitate better access between the communities on Melville and Bathurst Islands, the Tiwi Islands ferry service, businesses and facilities, making it a better place to live, work and visit."
Northern Territory Government
