Batchelor residents are now receiving treated drinking water from a new purpose-built chlorination facility, following the completion of a $3.9 million upgrade by the Northern Territory Government.
The new Batchelor Chlorination Plant replaces ageing infrastructure that no longer meets contemporary operational and safety standards, delivering improved reliability and water quality for the regional community.
- Want more information on what Inside Water is up to? Sign up for our weekly email, landing in inboxes with the latest news.
- Do you want the magazine delivered to your letterbox? Sign up here to subscribe.
What has changed at the Batchelor chlorination plant?
The upgrade introduces dual sodium hypochlorite dosing systems, supported by bunded storage and secondary containment to improve chemical handling and risk management.
Electrical systems have also been modernised, with enhanced safety systems, automation and remote monitoring capability designed to strengthen long-term operational resilience.
Minister for Essential Services Steve Edgington said the investment forms part of a broader push to improve essential infrastructure across the Territory.
“In our year of growth, certainty and security, delivering better essential infrastructure is central to the CLP Government’s commitment to restoring the Territory lifestyle and keeping the NT a place people choose and are proud to call home,” Edgington said. “The new Batchelor chlorine plant delivers the certainty the community needs to thrive and gives families and businesses confidence to plan for the future.”
He said investment in critical water assets remains a priority for regional communities.
“We are investing in critical water infrastructure to ensure regional communities like Batchelor have secure and reliable, high-quality water services now and into the future,” Edgington said.
Why is chlorination infrastructure critical for regional NT communities?
Chlorination remains a cornerstone of drinking water safety in regional and remote communities, where distribution networks can be exposed to high temperatures and variable operating conditions.
Upgraded dosing systems and remote monitoring reduce the risk of under- or over-dosing, support regulatory compliance and improve operational oversight from centralised control centres.
Member for Blain Matthew Kerle said the upgrade delivers tangible local benefits.
“Improving the drinking water in my hometown of Batchelor shows the CLP Government is delivering right across the Territory and helping create a secure and better life for now and for our kids in the future,” Kerle said. “I am pleased that the CLP Government is showing how committed we are to helping Territorians be happier and healthier.”
The completion of the Batchelor chlorination plant upgrade strengthens treatment reliability for the town and reinforces the role of modernised water infrastructure in supporting regional growth and public health outcomes.