Joint media release: NT's Manton Dam construction complete under budget, return to service in sight
$15 million under budget at $174 million, and marking a major milestone in securing Darwin’s future water supply. Funded by the Albanese Government through the National Water Grid Fund, and in partnership with the Northern Territory Government, the investment and collaboration between both governments supports the expected growth in demand within the Darwin region.
The completion of construction marks one of the most significant water infrastructure milestones in the Northern Territory in 50 years and includes delivery of: Significant upgrades to the existing intake tower at Manton Dam’s reservoir The new Strauss Water Treatment Plant which will provide comprehensive water treatment capability to ensure water meets the highest water quality standards A new pump station and 22 km of pipeline to deliver water to the Strauss Water Treatment Plant from the reservoir.
Manton reservoir is a unique, multi-use asset that will continue to provide recreational opportunities while supporting Darwin’s future water security, with the project making an additional 7,300 megalitres of water available for consumption each year. A strong partnership between local contractor Exact Contracting, Power and Water Corporation and the Northern Territory Government ensured the project was delivered on time and under budget.
The project construction delivered significant local economic benefits, with more than 111 employees and 500 contractors engaged during the past two years, supporting local businesses and Territorians. The Manton Dam Return to Service project is part of the $327.6 million Darwin Region Water Supply Infrastructure Program Stage 1 which is jointly funded by the Australian Government ($300.6 million) and the Northern Territory Government ($27 million).
The $15 million saved during the Manton Dam Return to Service project has been reallocated to planning works for the proposed Adelaide River Off-Stream Water Storage (AROWS) project, also part of Stage 1 of the Darwin Region Water Supply Infrastructure Program. Commissioning of the Strauss Water Treatment Plant is underway, with water from Manton Dam being connected to and entering the Darwin water network once final testing is complete.
Quotes attributable to Federal Minister for Environment and Water, Murray Watt: “The Albanese Government is pleased to be investing in major water security projects like this which will support generations to come and ensure the region can continue to grow. “Whether in Darwin or in regional and remote areas, our Government is funding projects that will deliver safe, reliable water supply for the NT.
“It’s a true testament to what can be achieved through strong collaboration, with construction now fully complete and connection and delivery of water to the Darwin network now closer than ever.” Quotes attributable to the Northern Territory Minister for Essential Services, Steve Edgington: “This is a significant achievement for Darwin region and more broadly, the Northern Territory.
Our population is growing and future proofing the water supply is critical to growing our economy, improving liveability and making the Territory the best place to live, work, visit and invest. “It’s incredibly exciting to see a project of this magnitude come to fruition. The collaboration between Exact Contracting, Power and Water and the Territory and Australian governments has seen this project delivered under budget and on time." Attributable to Federal Member for Solomon, Luke Gosling OAM MP: "I’m proud that the Albanese Government has backed this project and Territorians have delivered it - on time and $15 million under budget.
“The Manton Dam project is the biggest of its kid since the Darwin River Dam was built in the early 1970s, and it’s a critical addition to Darwin’s future water supply. “It’s also fantastic that Manton Dam can continue to be a place for locals and visitors to relax and enjoy, while helping secure more water for Darwin. “With more than 100 workers and 500 contractors involved, the benefits of this project have flowed well beyond Manton Dam - supporting local jobs, local businesses and the Territory economy.” We acknowledge the Traditional Owners of country throughout Australia and recognise their continuing connection to land, waters and culture.
We pay our respects to their Elders past, present and emerging.