The Federal Government today announced a further $13.4 million in funding under the Remote Airstrip Upgrade Program (RAUP).
Twenty-one airfield upgrade projects have been approved for grants under Round 10 of the RAUP, ranging from $5000 to $2.9 million for upgrades to be completed by 2026.
"Safe and accessible airstrips are critical to safeguarding the quality of life in many remote and very remote communities across Australia, as they keep essential services running and allow businesses to grow and thrive," said Assistant Minister for Regional Development and Education, Senator Anthony Chisholm.
“Which is why I’m thrilled to announce $13.4 million in funding to help ensure the safe operation and longevity of 21 airstrips, so that remote and isolated communities continue to have access to essential goods and services.
“Following the recent floods across remote Australia, improving the durability of these airstrips has never been more crucial. This improved resilience will also mean people who grow up in remote areas can continue to live, do business and retire there, knowing they will have access to the emergency and other services needed in any stage of life."
Major projects to benefit from the funding include:
- $2.9 million for lighting at Lockhart River, QLD
- $2.7 million to re-sheet and re-contour Balgo Hill, WA
- $1.4 million to re-seal the runway and restore a taxiway at Kowanyama, QLD
- $889,000 for resurfacing work and lighting at Woorabinda, QLD
- $863,000 to seal the runway at Ardyaloon, WA
- $661,000 to re-seal runway 01-19, apron and taxiway at Port Lincoln, SA
- $527,000 to re-seal runway 11/29 and upgrade of runway and taxiway lighting at Ceduna, SA.
“The RAAA would like to acknowledge the ongoing investment by government in remote and regional aerodromes," said Regional Aviation Association of Australia CEO Rob Walker.
"The continued safe operations of our member companies for the benefit of the regional communities they serve is of the utmost importance.
“From Balgo Hill in northwestern Australia to Ceduna in South Australia and to Lockhart River in far north Queensland these projects will make a huge difference to maintaining vital airstrip and aerodrome infrastructure.
"This is a significant investment that ensures that regional and remote communities continue to have access to essential goods and services. Access to reliable aviation services must continue to be available for people living in regional Australia.
"The RAAA looks forward to the continued investment by government and their commitment to the RAUP in the years ahead.”
Round 10 of the RAUP brings the total funding under the program to $115 million across 470 projects.
No funding was made available for airstrips in Tasmania and Victoria, with $115,000 allocated to Nyngan the only approved project in NSW.
The full list of successful projects is on the Department of Infrastructure website.