The Hon. Steve Edgington, Minister for Aboriginal Affairs (NT), Media Release, 5 November 2025

The Northern Territory Government welcomes confirmation that Top End Barge Services will commence barge operations between Darwin and Wadeye from mid-November, ensuring freight deliveries to the West Daly region.

In response to the withdrawal of the previous provider, the NT Government facilitated the EOI process on behalf of Wadeye stakeholders to find a new operator.

Minister for Aboriginal Affairs Steve Edgington said the new arrangement is a great example of local leadership delivering practical outcomes for the community.

“This is a great result for Wadeye, the community came together, identified what it needed, and found a commercial solution,” Mr Edgington said.

“It’s great to see the community of Wadeye and local stakeholders take the lead in securing a new freight barge service that will keep essential supplies flowing into the region.”

The new service will begin with fortnightly deliveries in November, moving to weekly runs in the new year.

“Importantly, this is a commercial arrangement, not a government-funded service and that’s a great result for the community and local business confidence,” Mr Edgington said.

“It shows what’s possible when communities lead the way, with government working alongside them to make it happen. 

“It’s unfortunate that, despite requests for assistance, the Federal Minister’s only involvement was to go take a selfie down at the barge landing after the company, the community and NT Government had worked up the resolution.”