our story
The Outback Way – A Long Road, A Terrific Journey with Great People
The Destination Is What Could Be!
"…the scale of this project transcends individuals, capturing the essence of imagination and ambition…"
The purpose of the Outback Highway Development Council (OHDC) is simple yet profound: to upgrade and seal the Outback Way, benefiting the entire nation
OHDC Inc. Drivers and Values
National Development: We are dedicated to being a relevant driver in Australia's national development through this iconic project, supported by all levels of government, to be part of the solution.
Passion for the Outback: The Outback Way is vital to the nation, and we are committed to the long-term sustainability of the communities it serves.
Improving Quality of Life: Our mission is to improve access, services, and economic opportunities for rural and remote Australians, ensuring equity for our communities.
Creating Adventure and Opportunity: To create tourism and economic opportunity to safely experience the quintessential adventure, spirit and culture of inland Australia, with respect for the natural environment.
Collaboration and Innovation: Working as a united team of stakeholders, we are proud of our genuine cooperation, passion, and forward-thinking approach. Together, we aim for long-term success, learning, and growing, with respect for each other's contributions and circumstances.
Timeline Snapshot
The vision of the Outback Way began with Patrick Hill in 1997. His idea of sealing the existing roads connecting remote communities across Australia's heartland gained support from the local councils along the route. This led to a motion at the Australian Local Government Association Conference to turn this vision into reality.
Formed in 1998, the OHDC Inc. has since been an alliance of councils and stakeholders committed to this goal. Through both financial and in-kind contributions, the organisation has continuously lobbied for road upgrades while promoting tourism opportunities along the route.
Since 1998, the OHDC Inc. has secured $1.2 billion in funding for sealing the 2,700km route. To date, 1,600km have been sealed, with 1,100km remaining.
In 2011, the OHDC Inc. secured $437,000 in tourism funding to develop a comprehensive tourism brand. This included brochures, the HEMA guidebook and Atlas, interpretive panels, a carbon offset program, and the world’s longest geocaching trail – a treasure hunt that spans the Outback Way.
2021 saw 70% of the unsealed gravel sections upgraded to Type 3 gravel roads.
In 2022, the Outback Way achieved a significant milestone with the Federal Government committing $678 million in funding, with a 20% contribution from state and territory governments, to complete the sealing of the iconic Outback Way by 2032. This funding marks a critical step forward in the vision to transform the Outback Way into a fully sealed national route, boosting economic development, tourism, and accessibility for remote communities. The investment not only highlights the importance of the Outback Way in supporting regional connectivity and infrastructure but also strengthens its role in growing industry opportunities and fostering sustainable development across the heart of Australia. When complete the Outback Way will be the nation’s third east-west transnational road.
The journey continues, and we’re proud to be driving Australia's future forward.