Darwin Region Water Supply Infrastructure Program

As the Territory grows, having enough water for the future is critical — for people, industry, agriculture and the environment.

In the Darwin region, 85% of our water supply comes from the Darwin River Dam, which is currently operating at capacity. The remaining 15% is provided through groundwater resources.

The total demand for water in the Darwin region is expected to more than double by 2050, increasing to 100 gigalitres per year.

Securing additional water supply to the Darwin region will ensure Territorians have:

• continuous access to safe drinking water
• support economic growth
• maintain the Territory lifestyle.

The Northern Territory Government and Power and Water Corporation completed a detailed business case to explore a range of options to increase water supply in the Darwin region. This comprehensive assessment identified the Darwin Region Water Supply Infrastructure Program as the best solution to meet the short- and long-term water needs of the Territory.

The program will be delivered in 2 stages.

Stage 1

• Manton Dam Return to Service (RTS) to boost short-term water supply by late 2026
• Strauss Water Treatment Plant – stage 1
• Middle Arm Water Supply – stage 1
• Planning, approvals and pre-construction activities for the proposed Adelaide River Off-stream Water Storage (AROWS) project.

Stage 1 of the Darwin Region Water Supply Infrastructure Program is jointly funded by the Australian Government, through the National Water Grid Fund ($300.6 million) and the Northern Territory Government ($27 million) delivered in partnership with Power and Water Corporation.

Stage 2

• Construction and commissioning of the AROWS project to secure a long-term water supply
• Strauss Water Treatment Plant – stage 2
• AROWS supporting infrastructure.

Stage 2 is subject to regulatory approvals and future investment decisions.