Jabiru Airport Scheduled for Closure and Demolition
Jabiru Airport, which serves Kakadu National Park and surrounding communities in the Northern Territory, is slated for closure and demolition later this year. The airport is located within the lease area of Rio Tinto's Ranger uranium mine, which concluded operations in 2021 and is currently undergoing rehabilitation.
Federal regulations stipulate that Rio Tinto must close and demolish the airport. The company has confirmed that this process is intended to begin in October.
Regional Impact and Growing Concerns
The impending closure is expected to affect the town of Jabiru, known for its distinctive crocodile-shaped hotel and its role as a gateway to Kakadu National Park. Numerous remote Aboriginal communities in the area will also be impacted.
Manuel Brown, Arafura MLA, expressed significant concerns regarding the potential impact on healthcare access, emergency services, employment, tourism, and regional connectivity.
Lifeline for Remote Communities
The nearby Aboriginal community of Gunbalanya, home to 1,177 residents, is particularly reliant on Jabiru Airport. This dependence is amplified by annual road closures during the wet season.
Brown stated that without reliable air access:
Concerns exist regarding guaranteed food supply, timely medical treatment, and emergency evacuation capabilities for Gunbalanya, which can be cut off by road for up to six months annually.
Business and Stakeholder Response
Kakadu Air, a charter air operator, indicated that the airport's closure would significantly impact Jabiru and the wider West Arnhem Land region. They highlighted particular concerns regarding the transport of food and medical supplies during the wet season. Staff have been informed that airport access will be restricted from October.
Rio Tinto acknowledged stakeholder views on keeping the airport operational and stated support for such efforts, provided appropriate arrangements can be agreed upon. However, legislative requirements mandate Rio Tinto to decommission and demolish the airport by late 2026 if no third-party operator is secured.
Government Discussions Underway
Manuel Brown has urged both the Northern Territory (NT) government and the Commonwealth to find a lasting solution to keep Jabiru Airport operational.
A spokesperson for Resources and Northern Australia Minister Madeleine King confirmed ongoing discussions with the NT government and other stakeholders. These talks aim to provide certainty for traditional owners, local communities, and businesses. Similarly, NT Housing, Local Government and Community Development Minister Steve Edgington also confirmed the government's efforts to reach a resolution with the Commonwealth and key stakeholders.