Operators of regional airports and aerodromes now have a chance to secure government funding to boost accessibility and safety at their facilities.
Federal Member for Gippsland Darren Chester has announced the second round of the Regional Airports Program is now receiving applications.
“The Regional Airports Program is part of the Australian Government’s commitment to improve the accessibility and safety of regional airports and aerodromes across the nation,” Mr Chester said. “Our small airstrips across Gippsland are invaluable community assets.
“The response, relief and recovery work undertaken during summer bushfires showed just how important this infrastructure is in an emergency.
“Airport and aerodrome operators now have a chance to apply for government money to get needed improvements underway. This is also an opportunity for the Federal Government to invest in local infrastructure, support local suppliers and contractors and support local jobs.”
Sixty-one projects were approved in June this year in round one of the program. Among them were: Benambra Airstrip ($110,000 to seal its gravel runway); Orbost Airport ($118,468 to upgrade its lighting); and Yarram Aerodrome ($37,500 to build a new helipad, install fencing and buy a generator).
Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for Infrastructure, Transport and Regional Development Michael McCormack said the funding would continue to assist regional airports to complete essential upgrades.
“We have worked with industry to change the guidelines so that small local government and Indigenous corporations with projects of $300,000 or less can now seek funding for 100 per cent of eligible project costs, helping to deliver essential works at a time it is needed most while supporting local employment opportunities,” Mr McCormack said.
“Our commitment of $100 million over four years from 2019-2020 to 2022-23 will ensure the owners and operators of regional airports can deliver improved safety and capability, including upgraded runways, taxiways, as well as new fencing, navigational aids and lighting.”
Applications for round two will close on December 15, 2020. Visit business.gov.au/rap for details.
