Viva Energy Australia has announced a partnership with Tiwi Port and Marine and the Department of Defence to ensure ongoing operations of the Melville Island Fuel Facility.
The 30-million-litre fuel facility roughly 80km north of Darwin will play a critical role in supporting various industries in the region while also enhancing Defence’s fuel capability and resilience.
Viva Energy will enter a long-term exclusive Tiwi Port and Marine will take over the port operations after the previous business was placed into administration and the facility was at risk of closing.
The partnership will allow Tiwi Port and Marine to acquire the overall port facility, with a portion of future storage revenue going directly to the Tiwi-led organisation once a certain level of storage is achieved.
Port Melville is a multi-user facility supporting the Northern Territory oil and gas industry, marine transport industry and local Tiwi community.
Viva Energy CEO Scott Wyatt says the new commercial agreement improves the company’s commitment to supporting First Nations people and obligations to Defence.
“It is tremendously exciting to formalise this important partnership,” Wyatt says. “This deal aligns closely with Viva Energy’s long-standing commitment to supporting reconciliation and positive outcomes for First Nations 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.
“Importantly, we will work with the Tiwi communities to transfer skills and knowledge through training and employment opportunities.
“We will also link into other commercial and community partners to unlock additional business opportunities and enhance access to community services.”
Traditional Owner and Tiwi Port and Marine Chair Gibson Farmer Illortaminni says the partnership will continue to help shape the prosperity of the region.
“I’m very proud of this new partnership with Viva Energy and Defence,” he says.
“Working together, the Tiwi people are shaping the island now and into the future, creating jobs and opportunities for our kids and future generations.”
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