Australia’s minerals industry is calling for a major upgrade of roads and rail corridors across Northern Australia to address what it describes as a “missing link” in national infrastructure, unveiling a $44 billion blueprint to unlock hundreds of billions of dollars in mineral, manufacturing and agricultural wealth.
The Minerals Council of Australia (MCA) has submitted a proposal to the Inquiry into Preparing for Emerging Industries Across Northern Australia.
The plan outlines an east–west and north–south infrastructure axis designed to form the backbone of mining, industrial, agricultural, defence and community activity across the north.
Key projects include the completion and hardening of the Great Northern Highway, full sealing of the Tanami Road, and integration of north–south and east–west rail links through new connections from Halls Creek to Alice Springs or Tennant Creek, and from Alice Springs to Mount Isa.
The proposal also features an intermodal and industrial hub at Alice Springs, complemented by logistics and industrial facilities at Katherine, Tennant Creek and other strategic nodes, along with upgrades to the Mount Isa–Townsville rail corridor.
“While governments have already invested heavily in infrastructure in the NT, northern WA and Queensland, further strategic investment in infrastructure will enable access to trillions of dollars in mineral resources as well as supporting agriculture, defence manufacturing and communities,” said MCA Chief Executive Tania Constable.
“If we neglect the development, growth and success of Northern Australia, we will miss out on many opportunities to boost Australia’s economic future, national security and integration into the rapidly growing South-East Asian region.
“When a derailment like the one in January 2026 shuts down all east-west bulk goods transfer by rail or the wet season makes northern roads impassable, it’s clear that much more investment in basic infrastructure is required.
“Northern Australia is the frontline of Australia’s engagement with South-East Asia and the gateway to the Indian and Pacific Oceans.”
Constable said the region’s potential remains largely untapped.
“Geoscience Australia’s Mineral Potential Models suggest significant critical mineral and strategic material deposits across the north of Australia, including bauxite, manganese, vanadium, copper, gold, lithium and rare earth elements, along with one of the world’s largest potential agricultural expansions.”
According to the submission, a coordinated national effort to build multi-use infrastructure will not only spur private investment and enhance export competitiveness but also strengthen national defence and community resilience.
