Grafton Airport is to get a $1 million upgrade through the Federal Government's Regional Development Fund.
The grant will be used to extend the terminal and carpark, provide extra hardstand for helicopters, upgrade the perimeter fence and runway lighting and replace the back-up power supply.
Federal Minister for Regional Development and Local Government Anthony Albanese said the upgraded airport would help the community secure increased and more reliable passenger services between Grafton and Sydney.
“The upgrade to Grafton Regional Airport will help open new markets, drive growth and create jobs,” he said.
“Surrounding communities rely heavily on the airport to conduct business, access essential services and medical services as well as stay in touch with family and friends. The airport upgrade will make it easier and safer for them to fly into and out of Grafton.”
Grafton has Rex flights to Sydney via Taree, and the NSW fire service regularly uses the airport for fire fighting and flood relief services to the Northern Rivers and Mid North Coast regions.
The new work is expected to be complete by the end of 2014.