Step back in time and explore Darwin's Top Secret WW2 Oil Storage Tunnels, an underground heritage museum. Learn about the engineering efforts, logistical challenges, and strategic decisions made during wartime.

Discover how, following the loss of more than 20,000 tonnes of oil in the initial raids, the Australian Government recognised the urgent need to protect its fuel supplies. Oil was essential for military operations, and without secure storage, Australia’s defensive capabilities were significantly threatened. As a result, plans were made to construct eight underground oil storage tunnels beneath Darwin.

By the end of the war, six tunnels had reached the lock-up stage. However, the project faced significant challenges. The tunnels suffered from persistent water leakage, and construction costs increased. What began as a £220,000 project eventually cost £1.2 million, and despite this major investment, no oil was ever stored in the completed tunnels during WW2.

During the 1950 and early 1960 light grade oil for aviation {Kerosene} was stored successfully by painting the joins with “Two Pack” paint the interior welds due to their porous nature. Today, the tunnels operate as an educational & historical site, allowing visitors to explore the engineering efforts, logistical challenges, and strategic decisions made during wartime.

Opened to the public in 1992 to mark the 50th anniversary of the Bombing of Darwin, the tunnels now stand as an important reminder of Australia’s wartime experiences. They highlight the resilience and determination of the personnel who worked in demanding and often uncomfortable conditions beneath the city.

See the Digger Man, fully constructed from WWII items and artefacts, and learn about Australia's first Super Hero “AADFA man” and the Darwin Digger Ar comics depicting Australia's WW2 unsung heroes.