Australian Government Invests In Regional Airports

Funded under Round 4 of the Regional Airports Programme, these essential upgrades will include runway resurfacing and sealing, line marking and lighting upgrades.

In Port Augusta, A$842,500 will support targeted runway pavement strengthening. The works will strengthen sections of the runway to improve its surface, extend its lifespan and improve safety.

This will support the Royal Flying Doctor Service's (RFDS) 24-hour operations based at the airport, as well as passenger, charter and general aviation.

Other works to be funded under Round 4 in South Australia are: A$550,000 for the District Council of Grant to upgrade the taxiway and apron to accommodate larger aircraft and air tankers for firefighting at the Mt Gambier Airport, and A$106,767 for Naracoorte Lucindale Council to reseal and line mark the Naracoorte Aerodrome runway, to extend its lifespan and support access for the RFDS and emergency services, including for firefighting.

The government is also providing A$121,400 for the Copper Coast Council to purchase and install a runway lighting system to enhance safety and accessibility at the Copper Triangle Aerodrome and support all-weather access for the RFDS. It will give A$61,701 for the Northern Areas Council to upgrade the lighting system at the Sir Hubert Wilkins Aerodrome and A$49,422 for the Clare Valley Flying Group Incorporated to support construction of a dedicated area for helicopter operations at the Clare Valley Aerodrome.

Today's announcement builds on the nearly A$100m that has already been delivered to support 194 projects under the first three rounds of the programme.

Australia’s RFDS will benefit from the government-funded airport improvements