Pirlangimpi Road on Melville Island is being upgraded to support industry and economic growth in the Tiwi Islands region, with a tender now released to market.
The works are part of a $75 million joint investment between the Northern Territory and Federal Governments to upgrade key roads, linking the townships of Pirlangimpi, Pickertaramoor and Paru to the boat ramp that connects with communities and services on neighbouring Bathurst Island.
The Australian Government has committed $60 million towards the road upgrades on Melville Island, with the NT Government committing $15 million.
The Pirlangimpi Road upgrade has been identified as a priority through stakeholder consultation and by the Tiwi Islands Roads Investment Strategy.
Works in this package include realigning and sealing 15km of the road, as well as installing culverts and road safety barriers, improving flood immunity during the wet season.
“Pirlangimpi Road is critical economic infrastructure for the Tiwi Islands, supporting the local plantation industry, the growth of the local economy and prosperity of local communities,” said NT Minister for Logistics and Infrastructure, Bill Yan
“Upgrading this road will provide the safer and more reliable freight connection needed to support continued growth and future investment.”
A contract is expected to be awarded in early 2027, with construction expected to begin in July 2027 during the dry season and be completed by December 2028.
Pirlangimpi Road will remain accessible for the duration of the works, with speed restrictions, lane closures and detours in place.
The works form part of the NT Government’s significant investment in Territory roads, with Budget 2026–27 delivering more than $2 billion in key transport infrastructure projects to improve safety, reliability, and access across the Territory.
