Viva Energy Australia has announced a partnership that will ensure the continued operation of the Melville Island Fuel Facility.
The collaboration with Tiwi Port and Marine and the Department of Defence will bring together Australia’s leading energy provider with an Indigenous-led commercial business to ensure ongoing operations of the Melville Island Fuel Facility.
Located 80 km north of Darwin, the 30-million-litre fuel facility is a vital asset for the region, supporting industries and enhancing Defence’s fuel capabilities and resilience. The agreement comes at a critical time, as the facility faced closure following the previous operator’s administration.
Under the partnership, Tiwi Port and Marine will take over port operations, marking a significant step in Indigenous self-determination. Viva Energy has secured a long-term exclusive licence to manage the fuel facility, bolstered by a storage agreement with Defence. This collaboration guarantees the facility’s future and provides stability for the community.
Scott Wyatt, CEO of Viva Energy, said it was tremendously exciting to formalise this important partnership.
“This deal aligns closely with Viva Energy’s long-standing commitment to supporting reconciliation and positive outcomes for First Nation’s people and our obligations to Defence, which is one of our company’s most strategic customers. Through this long-term partnership, Viva Energy will utilise our core business skills and expertise in fuel supply chain operations to run the Melville Island Fuel Facility, providing long-term certainty for the business and Defence.”
Gibson Farmer Illortaminni, Traditional Owner and Chair of Tiwi Port and Marine, expressed his pride in the partnership.
“I’m very proud of this new partnership with Viva Energy and Defence. Working together, the Tiwi people are shaping the island now and into the future, creating jobs and opportunities for our kids and future generations.”
Wyatt also underscored the opportunities the collaboration creates for Tiwi communities.
“Importantly, we will work with the Tiwi communities to transfer skills and knowledge through training and employment opportunities. We will also link into our other commercial and community partners to unlock additional business opportunities and enhance access to community services.”
As part of the agreement, Tiwi Port and Marine will acquire the port facility and benefit from a portion of future storage revenue once certain levels are met. This structure ensures ongoing benefits for the Tiwi people and aligns with Viva Energy’s broader reconciliation efforts under its recently launched Third Innovate Reconciliation Action Plan.
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