FEDERAL BUDGET SUPPORTS NT’S RECOVERY PLAN

The Northern Territory continues to benefit from the Liberal and Nationals Government’s record infrastructure investment, with funding for major new projects to be announced in this week’s 2021-22 Budget, securing Australia’s recovery.

Prime Minister Scott Morrison said these projects will make Northern Territory roads safer, reduce travel times and support hundreds of jobs across the Top End.

“From continuing our upgrades on major highways, to improving roads which support the expansion of the Beetaloo Basin - these projects will support more than 900 direct and indirect jobs across the Territory,” Prime Minister Morrison said.

“Our record funding commitment is creating jobs, boosting business investment, while securing Australia’s COVID recovery.”

Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for Infrastructure, Transport and Regional Development Michael McCormack said the Government was investing in the future of the Top End by providing $150 million for Northern Territory National Network Highway Upgrades (Phase 2).

“This significant investment builds on the $46.6 million provided for Phase 1 upgrades to priority sections of the Stuart, Victoria and Barkly highways,” the Deputy Prime Minister said.

“This upgrade is supported by recent commitments of $173.6 million for Northern Territory Gas Industry Roads Upgrades and $260,000 to fund a development study for the proposed Tennant Creek Multimodal Facility and Rail Terminal.”

Senator for the Northern Territory Sam McMahon said the new funding built on the Government’s strong record of infrastructure delivery in the Top End.

“Just in the past year, we have completed a number of crucial infrastructure projects, including the Keep River Plains Road Upgrade, to which the Australian Government invested $63 million under the Northern Australia Roads Program,” Dr McMahon said.

“This investment sealed around 30 kilometres of road in the north-west of the Territory, through to Legune Station, including two bridges over Keep River and Sandy Creek, benefitting regional communities and the agricultural and pastoral industries through enhanced freight capacity, improved flood immunity and boosted access, supporting economic development.”

The Australian Government looks forward to working constructively with the Northern Territory Government to deliver this infrastructure, supporting jobs and businesses right across the Northern Territory.

For more information on investments in the NT visit http://investment.infrastructure.gov.au.