THE Federal Government recently announced another round of country airport funding to share in $29 million available to support vital safety and accessibility upgrades.
Applications are now open for Round 3 of the Regional Airports Program (RAP) and grants of between $20,000 and $5 million are available to cover up to 50 per cent of eligible project costs.
Wannon MP, Dan Tehan said delivering funding for safety and accessibility works at regional airports would have both immediate and long-term benefits for local communities.
“Aviation forms the backbone of our way of life and our economies, which is why I am proud to see we are delivering more funding to ensure our regions are better and more safely connected,” he said.
“I encourage airports and aerodromes in Wannon to consider applying for funding that will make a real difference for their operations, their workers and our communities.”
Hamilton Airport received $300,000 funding at the end of July last year as part of the RAP and will be upgrading its sealed runway and lights to remain compliant with changed criteria for its code three status.
Southern Grampians Shire have not yet announced a date for commencement of works.
“This funding will ensure we continue to get our world-renowned goods to markets, locals to where they need to be, and medical and other supplies in – while providing a short-term boost to regional jobs and cash flow during construction works,” Mr Tehan said.
Other airports across Wannon that benefitted from funding under previous rounds of the RAP include Colac Municipal Aerodrome, Great Ocean Road Airport and Portland Airport.
Infrastructure, Transport and Regional Development minister, Barnaby Joyce said regional airports play a vital role in sustaining regional economies and communities.
“Our government is continuing to provide the funding needed to strengthen regional Australia,” he said.
“Recent flooding events have highlighted just how crucial regional airports and aerodromes can be for getting essential supplies and aero-medical services into communities.
“This $29 million funding injection will deliver vital upgrades and improvements to keep regional airports and aerodromes operating at their full capacity, ensuring the smooth delivery of goods and services to regional areas, boosting tourism and keeping locals and visitors moving.”
Under the $100 million RAP, the government has already committed nearly $71 million toward 150 airport projects nationwide.
The funding supports works including runway resurfacing to ensure safer landings, drainage works to prevent future flooding or erosion of runway surfaces, lighting upgrades to allow for night landings, and fencing to maintain a safer landing area.
Applications close May 17 and further information, including grant guidelines, eligibility requirements and the application process is available at bit.ly/3wzh0Ec.
