Two critical Northern Territory highways to get $258m federal budget funding

The Albanese Labor Government will pump more than $250 million into two critical Territory freight and tourism highway corridors in the federal budget. Find out which ones.

Federal Member for Lingiari Marion Scrymgour said the investment in the Stuart Highway will ease congestion, increase safety and improve travel times and connectivity across the Territory for locals and tourists. Picture: NewsWire / Martin Ollman

The Albanese Labor Government will pump more than $250 million into two critical Territory freight and tourism highway corridors in the federal budget.

Federal Infrastructure, Transport, Regional Development and Local Government Minister Catherine King said $200 million will be spent on upgrades to the Stuart Highway and a further $58.3 million will go towards the Carpentaria Highway Upgrade.

The Stuart Highway is the major highway running north to south through the heart of Australia, extending approximately 2700 kilometres.

“This will be transformational for both residents and visitors of Darwin and Katherine, making journeys smoother, safer and more enjoyable,” Minister King said.

“This is the transport spine of Australia, and we’re investing $200 million to get it in good nick.”

Minister King said the funding will go towards the progressive duplication of priority sections of the Stuart Highway between Darwin and Katherine, to enhance freight movement and improve road safety.

Road works crew asphalting the Stuart Highway

The new funding brings the Australian Government’s total investment into the Stuart, Victoria and Barkly Highways to nearly $780 million

Construction is expected to begin in mid-2026 and finish by mid-2028.

The further $58.3 million towards the Carpentaria Highway Upgrade, takes the total Australian Government commitment to $203.3 million.

The additional funding will allow the upgrade of a further 35 kilometres of the Carpentaria Highway.

The project, which is being delivered in partnership with the Northern Territory Government, will deliver upgrades to around 175 kilometres of the Carpentaria Highway, commencing at the Stuart Highway.

Minister King said it would improve the efficiency, safety and accessibility of the Carpentaria Highway from the Borroloola township in the east, through the Beetaloo Sub-basin to the Stuart Highway in the west.

Federal Member for Lingiari Marion Scrymgour said the investment in the Stuart Highway will ease congestion, increase safety and improve travel times and connectivity across the Territory for locals and tourists.

“The Australian Government remains committed to ensuring the future growth and sustainability of remote communities and regional centres across the Northern Territory,” she said.

Federal Solomon MP Luke Gosling in Palmerston, where Essington Ave is being repaired thanks to funding from the Roads to Recovery program. Picture: Supplied.

Meanwhile the government has also committed an extra $55m for the Northern Territory over the next five years under the Roads to Recovery program, bringing the total to $129m.

Solomon MP Luke Gosling said the significant boost would ensure local councils could plan for longterm road maintenance and upgrades.

“This funding will mean fewer potholes, smoother roads, and better infrastructure for communities across the Northern Territory,” Mr Gosling said.

“We know how critical it is for residents, businesses, and emergency services to have safe and reliable roads, especially during the wet season. That’s why we’re working with councils to make sure this funding is put to good use where it’s needed most.”