Tanami Road Upgrade

Overview

Road
Project type
$542.8 million
Total budget
Under Construction
Project phase
Main Roads WA
Lead agency
190
Jobs supported

Tanami Road is undergoing progressive upgrades and sealing to improve access and reliability.

Stretching 1,035 km between Alice Springs and the Great Northern Highway near Halls Creek (WA), the intrastate route provides access to remote Aboriginal communities, mine sites and attractions.

The 313 km long section in WA is unsealed and prone to damage and closures, especially during the wet season. The Tanami Road Upgrade will provide reliable access and enhance connectivity by sealing the road, improving drainage, installing culverts and floodways, and adding roadside facilities like rest areas.

The first 25 kilometres of Tanami Road, through the hills south of Great Northern Highway, has been sealed and is open to traffic. Work continues on the remaining 16 km of Stage 1, set for completion by late 2025. Stage 2, covering 32 km south of Ruby Plains Homestead, is underway and scheduled to be sealed by late 2026.

For detailed project information, visit Main Roads WA.

Benefits

Improve the transport network across Western Australia, Northern Territory and Queensland.
Provide reliable access throughout the year.
Create alternative interstate routes to reduce freight costs.
Reduced road closures during wet season.