9 October 2018 – The Federal Government has awarded Aldebaran Contracting the contract to deliver the second package of works on the $40 billion Buntine Highway upgrade – one of the Northern Territory’s high-priority cattle routes – following the start of construction for Package 1 in June.
The Federal Government is contributing $32 million through the $600 million Northern Australia Roads Program (NARP) with the NT Government contributing $8 million. The upgrades will improve road quality, safety and efficiency through pavement strengthening and widening.
Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for Infrastructure, Transport and Regional Development Michael McCormack said, “The Buntine Highway is a major transport link and these upgrades will significantly benefit the region’s cattle industry, with around 15 pastoral stations relying heavily on the Buntine Highway to get their cattle to Darwin.”
“These targeted upgrades will decrease maintenance costs, as well as reduce flood-related closures, travel times and load restrictions during the wet season, making these welcome improvements for the cattle industry which is so central to the North’s prosperity,” Mr McCormack added.
Northern Territory Minister for Infrastructure, Planning and Logistics Eva Lawler said the Buntine Highway upgrade is crucial.
“The current poor condition of the Buntine Highway and the limited year-round heavy vehicle access significantly impacts on the Territory’s key industries and the delivery of important services.”
“This upgrade will play a critical role in meeting the growing demand for beef exports, will support growth in cattle production across the Victoria River and Kimberley districts and support more than 30 jobs for Territorians during construction,” Ms Lawler added.
