Melville Island's Pirlangimpi Road is set to be upgraded in a move to support industry and economic growth in the Tiwi Islands region.
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 which connects with communities and services on neighbouring Bathurst Island.
A tender for the works was released to marked on Wednesday, with a contract expected to be awarded in early 2027.
Federal Member for Lingiari, Marion Scrymgour, said the 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," Ms Scrymgour said.
"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."
The Federal Government said construction is expected to begin July 2027 during the dry season with completion anticipated by December 2028, weather permitting.
Census data from 2021 indicates the Tiwi Islands region — which includes Melville Island and Bathurst Island — had a population of 2,348 people, with approximately 86.5 to 87 per cent identifying as Indigenous.
"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," Federal Minister for Indigenous Australians, Malarndirri McCarthy, said.
"Strengthening the road against flooding will improve safety and reliability in the wet season, supporting economic opportunities across the Tiwi Islands."
The Pirlangimpi Road upgrade was 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.
Federal Minister for Infrastructure, Transport, Regional Development and Local Government, Catherine King, said the joint investment will improve Melville Island's 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," Minister King said.
Pirlangimpi Road will remain accessible for the duration of the works, with speed restrictions, lane closures and detours in place.
Northern Territory Minister for Logistics and Infrastructure, Bill Yan said upgrading Pirlangimpi Road will provide the safer and more reliable freight connection needed to support continued growth and future investment in the Tiwi Islands region.
"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," Mr Yan said.
The Federal Government has committed $60 million towards the road upgrades on Melville Island, with the Northern Territory Government contributing $15 million.
