Following an extensive public tendering process involving a tender assessment panel, local company Jaytex Construction Pty Ltd has been selected to construct new headquarters for the Fisheries Division of the Department of Primary Industry and Resources.

The NT Government will lease the building for 10 years.

Jaytex is part of the Dixon Group, a locally owned business which has operated in the Territory for more than 20 years.

The NT Government’s Buy Local policy applies to the construction and ongoing maintenance of the headquarters.

Jaytex has committed to maximising the use of local labour, materials and suppliers where the capacity and capability exists in the Territory and prices are competitive.

Construction of the purpose-built facility will start next month.

Minister for Primary Industry and Resources, Ken Vowles, said the $5.3 million project will create local jobs.

“Around 80 jobs will be created during construction,” Mr Vowles said. “And the 10-year lease provides a much-needed contemporary, purpose-built, long-term facility for Fisheries.

“It will include 800m2 of office space and 1400m2 of secure storage for boats and equipment, as well as research facilities.

“The new location improves access for the public, recreational and commercial fishing industry to visit the Fisheries Division, and provides Fisheries with good access to local boat ramps.”

Fisheries is currently located at Berrimah Farm, in multiple buildings which have either exceeded their useful life or will be repurposed as part of the broader Berrimah Farm redevelopment project.

Fisheries is planning to relocate to its new home in the Berrimah Industrial Estate in November 2018.