$2million available for regional airport improvements

26/3/03 Applications have been invited for $2million available for capital works projects to improve airports in regional WA under the 2003-04 Regional Airports Development Scheme (RADS).

26/3/03
Applications have been invited for $2million available for capital works projects to improve airports in regional WA under the 2003-04 Regional Airports Development Scheme (RADS).
Planning and Infrastructure Minister Alannah MacTiernan said funding for up to 50 per cent of project cost was available for eligible airports, which could be owned by local governments, Government agencies, community organisations or private businesses.
Ms MacTiernan said to be eligible, airports had to be open to the public and unable to fund the improvements from their own resources.
"Airports and airstrips in regional Western Australia play an important role in providing access to communities and supporting the State's economic growth," she said.
"In some remote areas of WA, air services provide a vital transport link and such facilities are invaluable in times of an emergency.
"The State Government is pleased it can help improve these important facilities by working in partnership with local communities."
Since the inception of RADS nine years ago, more than $14million in State Government funds has been used in the development of over 80 projects at airports around the State with a total value in excess of $35million.
Previous RADS projects have included:

  • re-location of the runway at Onslow Airport to a flood-resistant area;
  • sealing of the runway at Warburton;
  • installation of runway lights at Fitzroy Crossing;
  • improvement of drainage and re-surfacing of the airstrip at Kalumburu;
  • construction of a Royal Flying Doctor Service transfer station at Merredin; and
  • upgrading of the CALM airstrip at Nannup to Royal Flying Doctor Service standards.
Applicants will have six weeks to prepare a submission for funding under the categories of planning, access and economic development.
Funding will only be granted to projects that meet the grant guidelines.
Further information about the scheme can be obtained from the Department for Planning and Infrastructure's website at http://www.dpi.wa.gov.au/aviation or by contacting the department on 9216 8722.
Minister's office: 9213 6400