Gippsland airports are set to benefit from a new fund announced by the Federal Government at the weekend to upgrade regional airports across Australia.
Federal Member for Gippsland Darren Chester said the government had committed up to $100 million to upgrade regional airports, focused on connecting country and coastal communities.
“Connecting our regions with better transport links is critical for future growth linking us to markets at home and overseas,” Mr Chester said.
Mr Chester said many Gippsland communities relied on safe and efficient air services for emergency and essential service flights.
“This will help ensure regional airports meet the needs of communities and local industry now and into the future.
“Whether it be improved runways or taxiways or larger upgrades, better airports will create more opportunities for our region.
“I look forward to working with local councils and communities to help our region take advantage of this funding boost.”
Deputy Prime Minister, Nationals’ Leader and Minister for Infrastructure, Transport and Regional Development Michael McCormack said the investment would provide essential works to promote aviation safety and access for communities.
“No matter where you live, we want to connect country and coastal communities and get people home sooner and safer,” Mr McCormack said.
“So the Liberals and Nationals are investing in safer regional runways, taxiways and projects such as better fencing to boost safety even further.
“By boosting regional airport investment by up to $100 million, we are making sure regional people and their communities get the infrastructure and services they deserve for business, leisure, health and education needs.”
Mr McCormack said regional airports provided vital links for communities to access services, job opportunities and domestic and international markets.
“We want more people – especially families and small businesses – moving to and staying in the regions, and better connectivity through airports is a vital part of that plan.”
Chief Executive Officer of the Australian Airports Association (AAA) Caroline Wilkie said the funding was a welcome initiative.
“The AAA report into regional airports in 2016 found airports provide essential links for communities but that many operate at a loss and have reduced capacity for essential capital works,” Ms Wilkie said.
“This funding will start to address this funding shortfall and assist this essential infrastructure to continue servicing communities into the future.”
The works will range from runway and taxiway works to animal fencing and safety equipment. All these works will ensure safe and more practical infrastructure to support access for communities.
Processes for funding applications and assessments will be released later in 2019, with funding available from 1 July 2019.
Media Contact: Mr McCormack – Colin Bettles 0447 718 781 | Dom Hopkinson 0409 421 209 Mr Chester – Jo Crawford-Wynd | Vicki Miller (03) 5144 6744
