SciDev has been awarded the design and construction of the Groundwater Treatment Plant Package by McMahon Services Australia (NT) Pty Ltd (McMahon Services), for the Department of Mining and Energy’s Rum Jungle Rehabilitation Project, located just south of Darwin in Batchelor.
The contract, valued at approximately $19.5 million, covers the design and construction of a 30-litre-per-second multi-stage groundwater treatment plant to treat contaminated groundwater from legacy uranium mining at the former Rum Jungle Mine. As one of Australia’s most significant environmental remediation undertakings, the project will rehabilitate the former Rum Jungle Uranium Mines – paving the way for the land’s return to its Traditional Owners, the Kungarakan and Warai peoples.
The rehabilitation work will treat mine pit water and groundwater, building on past efforts and applying industry-leading methods to:
- halt acid metalliferous drainage
- isolate radiological hazards
- reconstruct stable, enduring landforms.
The project works will commence immediately, with completion targeted for 4th September 2026. The contract also includes an option for a two-year extension covering the initial resourced operation and maintenance (O&M) of the plant. SciDev is well-positioned to deliver the complete 15-year O&M program.
Sean Halpin, CEO of SciDev, said:
“Securing the Rum Jungle water treatment contract with McMahon Services is a significant milestone for SciDev. Our solutions will play a critical role in addressing complex legacy mine challenges, delivering practical and sustainable remediation outcomes. The project highlights the commercial strength of our technology and supports long-term value for shareholders, partners, and the communities in which we operate. Importantly, SciDev is also well positioned to support McMahon Services and the Northern Territory Government in the ongoing operation and maintenance of the treatment plant over the next 15 years, ensuring lasting environmental and community benefits.”
This contract builds on SciDev’s strong track record of delivering specialised water treatment solutions for complex projects across Australia. The Rum Jungle Rehabilitation Project provides further validation of the Company’s proprietary technologies, reinforces its capability to partner with Tier 1 contractors, and enhances its visibility in the growing market for large-scale mine rehabilitation.
