Port Vila Urban Roads Reseal Project Marks a Major Milestone.
The Minister of Infrastructure and Public Utilities (MIPU), Hon. Xavier Emmanuel Harry, has signed the contract for the Port Vila Urban Roads Reseal Project with Downer EDI Works (Vanuatu), marking a key milestone in Port Vila’s ongoing urban infrastructure development.
The Australian-funded investment of VUV 622,615,141 (AUD 7.8 million) will enhance accessibility for residents, improve transport and business connectivity, and reduce vehicle wear and tear across key areas of the capital.
This transformational project will address approximately 6 kilometres of urban roads in Nambatu, Seaside, and Colardeau, with construction expected to commence in March 2026 and be completed by the end of 2026.
Delivering Quality and Durability
The project scope includes pavement repairs and resealing using Double Bituminous Surface Treatment (DBST) to ensure a high-quality, long-lasting road surface. It also features enhanced road safety measures, including the installation of signage and road markings.
The signing ceremony was attended by H.E. Max Willis, Australian High Commissioner to Vanuatu, alongside Hon. Minister Harry and Mr. Ben Regan, Commercial Manager for Downer EDI Works (Vanuatu), with senior MIPU officials also present.
“The Port Vila Urban Roads Reseal Project will deliver high-quality, climate-resilient roads that improve mobility, safety, and connectivity for Port Vila’s residents and businesses,” said Hon. Minister Harry. “We are starting in March with resealing critical roads in the Nambatu, Seaside, and Colardeau areas and looking to expand further to enhance Port Vila’s road network.” Strengthening the Vanuatu–Australia Partnership.
Minister Harry highlighted the strong partnership between Vanuatu and Australia, emphasizing that the collaboration continues to drive sustainable infrastructure outcomes. “Australia’s ongoing partnership in Vanuatu’s infrastructure development is demonstrated by this catalytic project which contributes to our economic and social development, whilst also building our internal capacity to manage and deliver road infrastructure,” he stated.
Through the Vanuatu–Australia Partnership, the Australian Government works closely with MIPU to deliver sustainable and climate-resilient infrastructure that benefits the people of Vanuatu. A key focus of this project is also on strengthening the capacity of the Public Works Department (PWD) to deliver high-quality road infrastructure. Aligned with National Priorities The Port Vila Urban Roads Reseal Project aligns with the Vanuatu People’s Plan and the Vanuatu Public Roads Strategy, both of which prioritize improving and maintaining urban road infrastructure. The project will be delivered with VAI4D engineering technical oversight to ensure high standards of implementation.
Since 2009, the Vanuatu–Australia Partnership has contributed more than VUV 8.3 billion (AUD 100 million) to infrastructure programs across the country—supporting local contractor capacity, technical systems, and climate-resilient construction practices.
Downer EDI Works (Vanuatu) has been a long-standing partner in Vanuatu’s road infrastructure development since 2008, delivering major projects such as:
150km of road upgrades on Efate and Santo. The Port Vila Urban Development Project (2017) 13km sealing of Kings Cross Road on Tanna (2018)