Regional airports or aerodromes across Mallee can now apply for their share of $29 million available to support vital safety and accessibility upgrades.

Applications are now open for Round 3 of the Regional Airports Program (RAP). Grants of between $20,000 and $5 million are available to cover up to 50 per cent of eligible project costs.

Federal Member for Mallee, Anne Webster, 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,” Dr Webster said.

“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.

“I encourage airports and aerodromes in Mallee to consider applying for funding that will make a real difference for their operations, their workers and our communities.”

“In Mallee, Hopetoun Airport has already benefited from $135,450 under the Regional Airports Program, which enabled them to install security stock fencing around the airport. The project enhanced pilot and passenger safety, as well as access for all airport users, including aeromedical and emergency services.”

Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for Infrastructure, Transport and Regional Development 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,” the Deputy Prime Minister 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 projects nationwide.

This funding supports important 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 17 May 2022. Further information, including grant guidelines, eligibility requirements and the application process, is available at: https://business.gov.au/grants-and-programs/regional-airports-program-round-3