Design and Construct of Stage 3 of Carpentaria Highway upgrades

The Australian and Northern Territory Governments are investing $254 million to the Carpentaria Highway upgrade project.

Exact Contracting Pty Ltd is the successful tenderer to design and construct the next stage of works from the Tanumbirini Propacc Track to 5kms past the October Creek Bridge.

Treasurer and Minister for Logistics and Infrastructure Bill Yan said the contract is a key milestone in unlocking the full potential of the Beetaloo Sub-basin and improving

connectivity to Borroloola and across the Roper Gulf region.

“These upgrades are critical for our cattle, mining and energy sectors, and for the remote communities that depend on this vital transport corridor year-round,” he said.

Stage 3 will deliver:

• A dual-lane sealed road between CH140km and CH175km;
• A new, two-lane sealed October Creek Bridge; and
• Upgraded flood immunity through widened and elevated road infrastructure.
  

Jointly funded by the Australian Government and Northern Territory Government, the works form part of a five-stage upgrade to the Carpentaria Highway:

• Stage 1 (CH2–50km): Completed September 2024.
• Stage 2 (CH50–140km): Under construction, completion due June 2025.
• Stage 3 (CH140–175km): Contract awarded.
• Stage 4: Carpentaria and Stuart Highway intersection upgrade (design underway).
• Stage 5 (CH175–270km): Planning and investigations in progress.
  

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Each year, about 30,000 head of cattle are transported along the Carpentaria Highway to East Arm Port, with 15 pastoral stations relying on the route for market access.

Mr Yan said the investment would deliver long-term economic benefits.

“This is about building the roads that power our economy — reducing travel times, increasing safety and supporting private investment across the Territory,” he said.

Exact Contracting General Manager Operations David Fellows said the company was proud to play a role in the Territory’s development. “We are excited to continue our work on the Carpentaria Highway. Our strong local presence and experience position us well to deliver this important project,” said Mr Fellows.

“We’re committed to supporting local industry, providing training and career pathways for Territorians, and investing in long-term community growth. Through our partnership with CDU, we’re engaging local students and graduates to build Territory capability and promote long-term careers within the NT.”

Construction on Stage 3 is expected to begin in May 2025 and be completed by December 2025. Detours and traffic management will be in place to minimise disruption during works.

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