Careful stock management and the use of airfreight when needed is helping to keep remote communities across the Barkly and Central Australia regions supplied with essential goods while roads are cut by recent floods.
The Northern Territory Government released a statement on Sunday saying the “vast majority of remote stores are currently isolated by road due to flooding and damage, preventing normal freight deliveries. Some communities are also experiencing increased demand due to concurrent local events”.
“Despite these pressures, stores are maintaining supply through careful stock management and airfreight support,” the statement said.
It also said that while “some specific products may be temporarily limited, overall food availability remains sufficient”.
“The Northern Territory Government continues to engage directly with store managers to monitor supply levels and respond to emerging needs.”
Northern Territory incident controller Superintendent Emma Carter says the response demonstrated the strength and capability of remote communities.
“Our remote stores are showing remarkable resilience in the face of challenging conditions,” Carter says.
“Even while roads remain cut, store managers and community boards are stepping up, managing stock carefully and using airfreight to prioritise fresh produce.
“While some individual items may be limited, there is sufficient food supply in communities.”
“This is not a food security issue – it is a logistics challenge, and our communities are handling it strongly.
“We are working closely with stores and stand ready to assist as road access improves and full freight deliveries resume.”