The Albanese Labor Government is delaying critical funding for remote airstrips across the Parkes electorate.

Federal Member for Parkes Mark Coulton said despite applications for the Remote Airstrip Upgrade Program Round 10 closing in December last year, Transport Minister Catherine King has not yet announced the successful grants.

“Minister King shows a particular lack of interest in aviation policy and regional infrastructure in general,” Mr Coulton said.

“The Remote Airstrip Upgrade Program has been running since 2011 so there’s really no excuse for the Minister not to be aware of Round 10.

“Councils in my electorate have had great success in the past under this program, with the previous round alone delivering more than $700,000 for vital upgrades for remote airstrips in Bourke, Condobolin, Tottenham, Emmdale, Walgett, Lightning Ridge, Collarenebri, Burren Junction, and Carinda.

“I know a number of councils had submitted applications under Round 10 and they are now faced with uncertainty as they try to complete budgets, not knowing whether to allocate funding for airstrip upgrades or not.

“Further delays by the Government could also result in essential upgrades being unable to be constructed within the terms of the grant’s hard deadline for completion no later than 30 April 2026.”

The upgrade program is essential to enhance the safety and accessibility of aerodromes in remote and very remote areas of Australia.

Safe, operational aerodromes are vital for our remote and very remote communities for the delivery of essential goods and services, particularly where road access is unavailable, unreliable or disrupted for extended periods due to seasonal weather conditions.

“Time and time again the Albanese Government has shown a great disdain for those of us living in regional and remote Australia,” Mr Coulton said.

“The people of the Parkes electorate deserve better.”

Shadow Minister for Infrastructure, Transport and Regional Development, Senator Bridget McKenzie said The Nationals will continue to stand up for the residents of regional and remote Australia and push for the timely and efficient delivery of services they depend on.

“The continuous delays and cancellations of grant programs under Minister King’s tenure has a real impact on regional communities,” Senator McKenzie said.

“An effective airstrip is crucial in these communities for the delivery of healthcare services, access to work and education opportunities, and to keep residents connected.

“We expect the Albanese Labor Government to fulfil its commitments without further delay and ensure that the safety and development of our remote communities are not compromised.”