Applications invited for Victoria's $20 million Regional Aviation Fund

Minister for the Aviation Industry Gordon Rich-Phillips has invited applications from airports across regional Victoria to access the $20 million Regional Aviation Fund (RAF).

Visiting Bendigo Airport, Mr Rich-Phillips said the Victorian Coalition Government recognised the major economic and social contribution that aviation makes to regional areas.

“Regional airports help drive economic activity through transport, tourism and air freight, while also enabling the delivery of a range of essential emergency services,” Mr Rich-Phillips said.

Bendigo Airport has been allocated $5 million in RAF funding for Stage 3 of its infrastructure redevelopment project, which includes an upgrade of the main north-south runway.

Mr Rich-Phillips said the redevelopment would boost the capacity of the airport and clear the way for further investment, productivity and growth opportunities for the Bendigo region.

“The redevelopment proposal offers potential for improved charter, emergency services, and scheduled services, which would deliver considerable economic and tourism benefits for the region, attracting both jobs and investors,” Mr Rich-Phillips said.

RAF funding is available for projects that improve facilities and enhance operational capabilities of public-use regional airports.

“The Coalition recognises that regional Victoria has a vital role to play in driving the state’s productivity performance and we are investing in upgrades for regional airports to open new markets, drive growth and create jobs,” Mr Rich-Phillips said.

Typical RAF projects may include:   developing, upgrading or extending runways and/or taxiways;   levelling and/or strengthening of aprons;   developing or upgrading aircraft parking areas;   sealing internal roads; or   installing or upgrading infrastructure such as navigational aids,   lighting, fencing or drainage.

Mr Rich-Phillips said the RAF was an important part of the Coalition Government’s broader plan to boost the state’s aviation industry and build the future of regional Victoria.