Five airports in the Parkes electorate will receive significant funding from the Coalition Government to reseal runways, build fencing, install CCTV and improve safety for emergency services and passengers.
Federal Local Government Minister and Member for Parkes, Mark Coulton said the five airports would share in more than $1.25 million announced today as part of the Morrison McCormack Government’s $41 million Regional Airports Program.
“Our government continues to back rural and regional communities in the Parkes electorate through job creation, access to more reliable transport and better service delivery,” Minister Coulton said.
“The Regional Airports Program will help to ensure our airports meet the needs of communities and local industry now and into the future.
“By improving the safety for those using regional airports or aerodromes, we can keep goods and services flowing and better support aeromedical and other emergency services.”
Minister Coulton said the following local projects would benefit from the latest round of funding:
- Narrabri Airport – apron upgrades to improve access for the RFDS and Rural Fire Service – $299,392;
- Gilgandra Aerodrome – a runway lighting upgrade is essential to keeping the airport operational at night. The works will reduce maintenance costs of the existing lighting – $83,159;
- Dubbo Airport – heavy patching and resealing works to improve safety and workability – $250,000;
- Gunnedah Airport – funding for perimeter fencing, runway lighting, line marking, and the installation of CCTV and terminal fencing – $198,000; and
- Narromine Regional Airport – works include the installation of pilot activated lighting on the taxiway and at the holding point and the installation of fencing and an illuminated wind indicator – $419,750.
“This funding will make a significant difference to these airports by enabling the owners to undertake vital safety upgrades that will benefit all areas of the community,” Minister Coulton said.
“Our Government is investing $100 million over four years from 2019-20 to 2022-23 to deliver safer runways, taxiways and other safety upgrades such as new fencing and safety equipment.”
Today’s announcement is in addition to the Federal Government’s total package of support for Australia’s aviation industry of more than $1.2 billion.
For more information on the Regional Airports Program, visit https://bit.ly/3hmtzsA.
