A FATHER and his learner-driver son have tragically died in a single vehicle crash on the Barkly Highway last Saturday afternoon.

NT Police say the fatality occurred 245 kilometres east of Tennant Creek about 5pm, where the vehicle was travelling west  when it left the road and collided into a tree.

The 52-year-old man has been identified as Paul Dyer, with police confirming his 18-year-old son Russell was behind the wheel.

Paul is believed to have recently taken up a position in mental health,and his Queensland son was relocating to town for employment.

Detectives from Southern Major Crash Investigation Unit are investigating the circumstances of the crash.

A report will be prepared for the coroner.