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The federal government has announced $12 million in funding for regional airports in NSW.
Provided under the fourth round of the Regional Airports Program, the grants are aimed at delivering “essential upgrades” such as runway resurfacing, fencing, lighting and drainage, to improve safety, capacity, and accessibility.
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“We’re backing regional communities by backing regional aviation, because we know our regions deserve access to critical services that only aviation can deliver,” Transport Minister Catherine King said.
“Upgrades like these aren’t just improvements, they’re the difference between regional residents getting medical help, firefighters getting access during an emergency and economies growing through tourism.
“We want our regions to remain connected to loved ones, healthcare and opportunity.”
The funding includes $3.8 million to extend the runway at Merimbula Airport in the state’s south by 80 metres at both ends, creating a 1,800-metre take-off length that will allow landings from larger narrow-body aircraft.
“This upgrade will support larger aerial firefighting tanker aircraft to land when we need them most, make it easier for larger military transport to operate out of the airport, and also increase the safety for in-flight emergency recoveries,” Kristy McBain, MP for Eden-Monaro, said.
“The extended runway will also ensure Merimbula Airport continues to attract aircraft that support our local businesses and visitor economy – while keeping people connected to work, health services and family.”
Moruya Airport, further north, will receive $200,000 to reseal its runway, taxiways, and apron, as well as replace its apron lighting.
“I am absolutely delighted to see improvements at Moruya Airport which is a lifeline for our economy, cuts commuting times for local people, and helps get our local produce to national and international markets,” Gilmore MP Fiona Phillips said.
“Not only that, but many people rely on air services for healthcare, emergency services and to stay connected with family.
“This investment will create more jobs, help local farmers, and support our social and economic connections across Australia. It’s great news for our regions.”
According to the government, other works to be funded under Round 4 include:
- $5 million for Albury City Council to deliver a full runway overlay to improve safety and strengthen the surface for larger aircraft to land at Albury Airport. This will support visitor levels and emergency services, particularly during bushfire season.
- $1 million for Moree Plains Shire Council to upgrade the aeromedical apron, taxiway and parking bays at Moree Regional Airport, creating a 24-hour aeromedical facility.
- Almost $500,000 for Griffith City Council to replace the ageing runway lights at Griffith Regional Airport, which is critical for safety and ongoing operations, especially for RFDS and NSW Air Ambulance.
- $220,000 for Mid-Western Regional Council to upgrade stormwater drainage at Mudgee Regional Airport, which has experienced prolonged closure due to heavy rain affecting passenger and emergency medical flights.
Geoff Fairless
says:The federal government needs to be careful that it’s improvements to regional airports does not attract more and more medium twin jet services. The government’s own air traffic control provider, Airservices, is incapable, due to it’s founding documentation, of providing ATC services where it cannot make money. In the last 30 years, only Ballina has attracted attention from the Office of Airspace Regulation, who have ordered Airservices to provide terminal ATC services at that airport. Meanwhile, there is a proliferation of medium jet services going into uncontrolled airports through Class G airspace. Perfectly safe says Canberra, until, of course, it is nor safe.
Ian Becker
says:With the the rollout of remote operated “towers,” I would think this won’t be a problem. The big test comes in 2026 with Western Sydney coming on-line figuratively and literally with their remote tower.