Completion of Phase 1 of the Gove Peninsula Water Supply Upgrade has strengthened water infrastructure in Yirrkala and laid the foundation for Phase 2 works, supporting the long-term growth of communities across the Gove Peninsula.
Jointly funded by the Australian Government, through the National Water Grid Fund, and the Northern Territory Government, the $12 million project was delivered in partnership with Power and Water Corporation.
The project included replacing 5.6 km of ageing water pipeline and 197 service connections for the community of Yirrkala.
These upgrades will improve water reliability, reduce water loss from the existing network and create additional capacity to support future housing and community development.
The improved access to water is helping to ensure Yirrkala is better placed to accommodate future growth while maintaining reliable water services for residents.
Building local capacity and creating employment opportunities were an important part of project delivery in Yirrkala. Construction works were delivered by regional Aboriginal business enterprise Bukmak Constructions, supporting approximately six local jobs and economic participation in the region.
In addition to infrastructure upgrades, planning and assessment work completed under Phase 1 has paved the way for the Gove Peninsula Water Supply Upgrade Phase 2 project.
This project is backed by a further $17.2 million joint investment from the Australian Government, through the National Water Grid Fund, the Northern Territory Government and Gumatj Corporation.
Delivered in partnership with Power and Water Corporation, the Gove Peninsula Water Supply Upgrade Phase 2 project is expected to begin mid-2027.
Quotes attributable to Federal Minister for Environment and Water, Murray Watt:
“No matter how remote, all communities deserve clean and reliable water.
“This investment delivers water reliability and resilience for the Gove Peninsula, while also creating capacity to support future housing and community development.
“The Albanese Government is committed to working alongside the Northern Territory Government as we continue to deliver water security improvements across the NT, including in the Gove Peninsula.”
Quotes attributable to NT Minister for Essential Services, Steve Edgington:
“We’re investing in the water infrastructure Yirrkala needs to support its community and secure its future.
“The CLP Government is delivering the essential infrastructure that supports our unique Territory lifestyle, right across the bush.
“Better essential services mean stronger communities and a Territory that’s the best place to live, work, visit and invest.”
Quotes attributable to Federal Member for Lingiari, Marion Scrymgour:
“Our government is committed to our remote communities in the NT and in making sure they have access to the services they deserve.”
“This is a really important upgrade for the Gove Peninsula and for Yirrkala and will make a big difference to the community.”
Quotes attributable to Kylie Collins, Power and Water, Acting Executive General Manager, Water Services:
“Replacing more than 5km of ageing pipelines in Yirrkala is a significant upgrade that will help reduce water loss and provide a more reliable water supply for the community for years to come.
“Just as importantly, this project has supported local Aboriginal jobs, with local Aboriginal company Bukmak Constructions delivering the work on Country. It’s a great example of how investment in essential infrastructure also creates employment and opportunities within the communities we serve.”
