Northern Territory tenders Sandover Highway upgrades

The Northern Territory Government has released a tender to upgrade and seal a 12-kilometre section of the Sandover Highway, specifically between the 170-kilometre and 182-kilometre marks. The project aims to transform the current unsealed stretch into a nine-metre-wide, two-lane sealed road.

In addition to the sealing, the scope of work includes the installation of a new culvert, five spray-sealed floodways, upgrades to two intersections, and the replacement of an existing cattle grid and its approaches. Tenders for the project are expected to close on 23 November.

The 561-kilometre Sandover Highway serves as a strategic link from the Plenty Highway toward Camooweal near the Queensland border. It is considered a critical lifeline for remote communities and cattle stations, facilitating the movement of livestock, the delivery of supplies, and access to essential services such as healthcare and education.

This initiative follows a $12.95 million contract awarded in July to Remote Industries Australia to repair flood damage caused during the 2024 flood event. Logistics and Infrastructure Minister Bill Yan stated that the upgrades are essential for supporting regional supply chains and the Territory economy.