CHRIS STEDMAN RECEIVING THE BEST BLAK BUSINESS GROWTH TROPHY AT THE NTIBN AWARDS. PHOTO: WAYNE DAWSON OF VIZIONSNT 

At the heart of the business is the father-and-son team of Michael and Chris Stedman, whose combined expertise spans decades. 

Michael, a seasoned construction manager, laid the groundwork by building homes and infrastructure in Maningrida, where the family has deep roots. Chris followed in his footsteps, leaving school at 16 to undertake a boilermaking apprenticeship under his father’s guidance before honing his skills on major projects, including the Ichthys gas development for INPEX. 

Now, as joint leaders of Stedmans Construction & Engineering, Chris and Michael have grown the business into a powerhouse with 31 staff — more than half Indigenous — delivering high-quality projects across Maningrida and its surrounds, Warruwi (South Goulburn Island), and Minjilang (Croker Island). 

Their team specialises in everything from large-scale construction to housing maintenance, concreting and civil works, with a focus on sustainability, reliability and strong community engagement. 

“We put a lot of effort into employing local people and giving them real career opportunities,” says Chris. “Our business isn’t just about building structures — it’s about building communities. 

“My dad and I have a deep connection with Maningrida, not just through our work, but through the lives we’ve built here — playing sports, growing up in the community and being part of its story.” 

This dedication to regional growth and Indigenous employment was recognised in 2024 when Stedmans Construction & Engineering was awarded the NT Indigenous Business Network’s Best Blak Business Growth trophy. 

The company also partners with the remote training organisations and local CDP offices to help its workforce gain essential industry certifications, including white cards for construction sites. 

Recent successes include completing a multi-million-dollar sports facility, including changerooms, for the West Arnhem Regional Council, adding to their growing portfolio of government, council and private sector projects. 

With a modern fleet, including a 25-tonne excavator, two seven-tonne excavators and a 25-tonne side tipper, Stedmans is equipped to handle projects of all sizes, from commercial concreting to critical repairs and maintenance. 

Looking ahead, Stedmans Construction & Engineering is expanding its footprint into Darwin, bringing its expertise to larger-scale projects while maintaining its core values of quality, trust and community investment. 

For those seeking a reliable, experienced, and community-focused construction partner, the company is the go-to team for projects across the Territory. 

Services include: 

• Concreting – from large commercial driveways to small footpaths, house slabs, and everything in between. 
• Construction – a trusted leader in remote community building, delivering long-term, high-quality infrastructure. 
• Repairs and maintenance – covering plumbing, carpentry, electrical work, and all general building maintenance needs. 

CONTACT 

Stedman’s Construction & Engineering 

Chris Stedman 

0400 448 555 

admin@stedmansconstruction.com.au 

Michael Stedman 

0417 825 926 

accounts@stedmansconstruction.com.au