Tennant Creek

Tennant Creek is a suburb in Northern Territory. Population of 3,080 (2021 Census). Median age 33. Median household income $1,677/wk. Median rent $180/wk. 4 pubs nearby. Postcode 0860.

Tennant Creek sits in the heart of the Northern Territory, roughly midway between Darwin and Alice Springs. It's a working mining community with genuine outback atmosphere—fuel, supplies, and meals are readily available, making it an essential refuelling point for drivers tackling long Stuart Highway stretches.

The town caters to travellers with basic services including shops, fuel stops, and several pubs offering meals and refreshment. Public toilets are distributed throughout town, helpful for caravan and motorhome travellers. While Tennant Creek itself is modest, it serves as a base for exploring the surrounding Red Centre landscape and breaking up major road journeys.

Travel Info

Must See

  • Sporties ClubLocal pub offering meals and authentic outback atmosphere
  • Tennant Creek HotelHistoric pub serving food and refreshments to travellers

Must Do

  • Refuel and resupplyEssential stop on Stuart Highway; last major fuel point before remote stretches
  • Rest and refresh at a local pubBreak up long drives and experience outback hospitality

Travel Tips

  • Stock up on fuel and water here—it's a critical resupply point on the Stuart Highway with significant distances between major towns
  • Public toilets are dotted around town; plan toilet stops before heading into remote areas
  • Several pubs serve food and cold drinks; they're social hubs in small outback towns
  • Accommodation and caravan facilities exist but may fill during peak travel seasons; book ahead if possible
  • Mobile coverage can be patchy outside town—confirm signal before leaving
Traffic & Access: Tennant Creek is a key service stop on the Stuart Highway. Fuel availability is reliable but plan ahead for remote drives north or south. Road conditions are generally good but check weather before travelling in the wet season.
Best Time to Visit: April to September offers cooler temperatures and lower humidity; avoid December to February due to extreme heat.

Tennant Creek at a Glance

Based on postcode 0860 area (ABS Census 2021)
3,080
Population
33
Median Age
$1,677/wk
Median Household Income
2.7
Avg Household Size
$1,114/mo
Median Mortgage
$180/wk
Median Rent
15%
Born Overseas

Nearby

Frequently Asked Questions

Is there fuel near Tennant Creek?

Yes, there are 5 fuel stations near Tennant Creek, including Astron Tennant Creek (3.6km), BP OPT COMPLEX TENNANT CREEK (3.7km), BP COMPLEX TENNANT CREEK (3.7km).

What attractions are near Tennant Creek?

There are 1 attractions near Tennant Creek, including Rev John Flynn Memorial (20.3km).