Forty-five upgrade projects around Australia have been approved for funding under Round Seven of the Remote Airstrip Upgrade Program (RAUP).
The announcement last week injects a further $9 million into the scheme.
Airports such as Batchelor, Millingimbi, Maningrida, Ngukurr, Birdsville, Bordertown, Blackall and Tilpa are all set to benefit from the hand-outs.
Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for Infrastructure, Transport and Regional Development Michael McCormack said funding under the RAUP will enhance safety and accessibility of aerodromes in remote areas and improve delivery of essential goods and services.
“These airstrips provide access for aeromedical flights, urgent supplies and allow people to travel to regional centres for essential work and appointments,” McCormack said.
“We are investing in the future of regional communities by delivering better and safer access for regional Australians needing to travel.”
Among the projects approved for funding are:
- $1.1 million for fencing at five Northern Territory airports including Hermannsburg
- $550,000 for a complete upgrade of Cape Barren Island (Tas)
- $665,000 for fencing at Badu, Kubin and Mabuiag in the Torres Strait
- $519,000 for works at Doomadgee (QLD) including vacuuming and line-marking and replacing lights
- $450,000 to reseal the runway at Warburton (WA)
- $386,000 to upgrade and restore Pickertaramoor (NT)
- $377,000 to extend and upgrade the runway and parking area at Parnngurr (WA)
- $219,000 for fencing at Coonamble (NSW)
- $102,000 to reseal Bordertown (SA)
Round Eight of the RAUP is expected to be announced later this year.
The full list of approved projects under Round Seven is on the Department of Infrastructure, Transport, Regional Development and Communications website.