Joint Media Statement: Iwantja to Stuart Highway road upgrade complete

A seven-kilometre road upgrade between Iwantja (Indulkana) and the Stuart Highway in the Anangu Pitjantjatjara Yankunytjatjara Lands has been completed.

Federal Minister for Major Projects, Territories and Local Government Paul Fletcher said the road improvements form part of the $106.25 million APY Lands Main Access Road Upgrade Project.

“This project is part of a national objective to increase the economic standard of living for Australians and to improve social outcomes,” Mr Fletcher said.

“The works aim to improve living standards of local Anangu by providing better access to essential services and facilities.”

South Australian Transport and Infrastructure Minister Stephen Mullighan said the project has been providing jobs for South Australians, including local Aboriginal workers.

“South Australian company Lucas Total Contract Solutions reconstructed and sealed the existing seven-kilometre road and improved drainage,” Mr Mullighan said.

“The road improvements started in September 2015 and will also provide the Indulkana community with all-weather access to the Marla airstrip.

“The Government in consultation with the APY Executive Board ensured that 30 percent of the total onsite labour hours were undertaken by local Anangu for these works.”

The Australian Government has committed $85 million and the South Australian Government $21.25 million for the five-year upgrade of about 210 kilometres of roads.

The works are expected to be completed in June 2019.

Further information is available at the APY Lands Main Access Road Upgrade.