Airport Development Group (ADG) recognises the strategic importance of the Barkly region; in particular the vast energy resources of the Beetaloo, the current and future development of critical minerals and rare earths, and the potential need for a logistics hub to support Northern Australia’s Defence requirements.

As such, ADG has today released the draft Tennant Creek Aviation and Accommodation Hub concept plan for community consultation. This concept plan has been developed together with key industry participants and seeks to provide a long-term solution to the growing aviation and logistics needs of the Barkly.

As energy and resource activity accelerates across the Barkly, Tennant Creek is fast emerging as a critical strategic hub—not only for the Northern Territory, but for the nation. ADG’s Tennant Creek Aviation and Accommodation Precinct Plan outlines a staged $30-35 million infrastructure upgrade, designed to unlock long-term growth, improve air connectivity, and meet the evolving needs of government, industry, and business.

Key elements of the precinct include:

• Extending and strengthening the runway to enable regular jet operations, improve capacity, and boost safety.
• Extending and upgrading of the airport apron to support rotary and fixed wing operations connecting directly from Tennant Creek to mining or energy extraction operations.
• Upgrades to terminal and car park facilities, enhanced signage, and modernised electrical systems to improve the overall passenger experience.
• Development of a dedicated Essential Key Worker Accommodation Precinct, delivering high-quality, fit-for-purpose housing for up to 100 personnel supporting government, Defence, and industry operations in the region.

ADG CEO Tony Edmondstone said the project represents a crucial step in future-proofing the Barkly and ensuring Tennant Creek becomes a high-performance regional centre for aviation, logistics and services.

“This precinct will be transformative for the Barkly,” Mr Edmondstone said. “It will support the creation of jobs, improve liveability, and strengthen regional connectivity—ultimately driving down the cost of travel and enabling industries and communities to thrive.”

“Aviation is the backbone of regional Australia. Upgrading this infrastructure is not just about aircraft—it’s about unlocking access to opportunity. It means faster, safer connections for people, services, freight, and investment. It means being able to support the critical workforce needed to power key sectors including energy, mining, health, education, and Defence.”

To help realise this vision, ADG has initiated a Barkly Region Roundtable, scheduled to be held in late April / early May, to enable Government, Industry and the community to provide input into the concept plan.

Currently, Tennant Creek Airport services is a mix of medical, government, tourism, and charter flights. Although fit for purpose today, the current Airport infrastructure is insufficient to support the significant growth expected in the Barkly.

ADG’s proposal addresses these constraints and enables long-term scalability—supporting growth of up to 100,000 passengers annually.

The planned Essential Key Worker Accommodation Precinct directly responds to the region’s short- to medium-term housing shortage. Already generating strong interest from government and Defence agencies, the precinct proposes to offer secure, modern accommodation for staff working in the Barkly’s most critical roles.

Importantly, the project is supported by the Barkly Regional Council, Northern Territory Government agencies, and local stakeholders, who see this as a pivotal enabler of economic resilience and social equity for the region.

“The Barkly is rich in resources and renewable energy potential, and this precinct will be central to unlocking those assets for the nation’s benefit.” Mr Edmondstone said.

ADG continues to invest in infrastructure that connects communities, strengthens industries, and drives regional prosperity across the Northern Territory.

About Airport Development Group

Airport Development Group is more than just an airport operator; we are tourism providers, property developers, partnership facilitators, land custodians, and sustainability champions.

Our vision is to be the preferred partner for strategic infrastructure development and management in Northern Australia; expanding our capability through strategic acquisitions of businesses that align with and strengthen our core pillars across aviation, tourism, property, and infrastructure.