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REGIONAL AIRPORTS IN VICTORIA SET TO SOAR
The Albanese Labor Government is building Australia’s future, investing almost $4.5 million to upgrade nine regional airports across Victoria.
Airports are vital for regional communities, providing critical access to emergency healthcare, as well as commerce, industry, tourism and education.
Funded under Round 4 of the Regional Airports Program, these essential upgrades will include runway resurfacing and sealing, line marking and drainage – which will improve safety and enhance accessibility at these regional airports.
City of Ballarat will receive $1.1 million to repurpose an old terminal building at Ballarat Airport into a new, fit for purpose space for emergency responders as well as medical patients awaiting transfer.
A dedicated aircraft parking area for aeromedical aircraft will also be provided allowing direct access to the facility.
Other works to be funded under Round 4 in Victoria include:
• $1.9 million for the Mildura Airport to rejuvenate and repair the main runway and related pavement areas ensuring the safety of aircraft, operations and passengers, maintaining connectivity for the region.
• $210,000 for upgrades to the Maryborough Aerodrome which will support the continued safe use, communication and access at the airport for emergency services, including aeromedical and fire services as well as general aviation use.
• $138,463 for the reseal of the Yarrawonga Runway to allow for the continued use of the aerodrome for delivery of essential goods and services, aeromedical flights, and general and recreational aviation.
• $185,955 to upgrade the main apron at Warrnambool Airport which will allow for two further aircraft to park and improve aircraft manoeuvring and parking.
Today’s announcement builds on the nearly $100 million that has already been delivered to support 194 projects under the first three rounds of the program.
For more information on the Regional Airports Program, including a full list of Round 4 projects in Victoria, visit www.infrastructure.gov.au/infrastructure-transport-vehicles/aviation/regional-remote-aviation/regional-airports-program.
Quotes attributable to Minister for Infrastructure, Transport, Regional Development and Local Government Catherine King:
“We’re backing regional communities across Victoria by backing our regional airports, which keep communities connected, and support increased economic opportunities.
“The new facility will mean that whether you’re on your way to fight a fire, or have a family member needing emergency health care, there will be a safe and appropriate place to wait, regardless of the weather outside.
“Ballarat Airport plays a critical role within our region throughout bushfire season, and in supporting emergency healthcare all year long. The benefits of this investment will be felt far beyond the boundaries of the City of Ballarat.”
Quotes attributable to City of Ballarat Mayor, Cr Tracey Hargreaves:
"The Ballarat Airport serves as a key hub for much of western Victoria, particularly in relation to aeromedical patient transfers and as an operational base for emergency services, including aerial firefighting crews.
“The new facility will provide emergency services personnel, air crews and patients with a dedicated, safe and protected space at the airport to conduct patients transfers and medical examinations while waiting for aircraft to arrive — out of the often-harsh Ballarat weather.
“This facility, together with the recently completed runway extension, is essential to the Ballarat Airport’s envisioned future as a hub for the west of the state that can cater to larger commercial and emergency services aircraft. The City of Ballarat thanks the Australian Government for their investment in this critical facility.”
28 February 2025
