Regional aviation funding gives flight to new opportunity, Davies
Author: Mia Davies
Published on: 13-December-2011
Member for the Agricultural Region, Mia Davies said the State Government’s continued investment in regional airports would open up new business opportunities and bolster emergency service capabilities across the Wheatbelt.
Under the Regional Airports Development Scheme a further $10 million in Royalties for Regions funding will be invested in improving regional airport infrastructure between 2012-2013 and 2013-2014.
Ms Davies, a member of the Wheatbelt Aviation Strategy Ministerial Taskforce, said the Taskforce found the Wheatbelt was ideal for the development of the aviation industry, with internationally sought after flying conditions, and the potential to diversify local economies.
“The Regional Airports Development Scheme can help communities to improve the quality of aviation infrastructure and attract a high quality, sustainable industry to their region,” Ms Davies said.
“Tourism in the Wheatbelt, in particular, will be an industry to benefit.”
Last year, more than 30 regional airport projects received funding for infrastructure upgrades and maintenance programs to provide improved access for communities, safer emergency evacuations and greater tourism opportunities.
“The Scheme has bolstered aviation infrastructure across the Agricultural Region including airports in Morawa, Three Springs, Geraldton, Kojonup, Narembeen, Wagin and Kondinin,” Ms Davies said.
Ms Davies called on regional Local Governments and airport operators to take this opportunity to improve the services and infrastructure in their town.
“I encourage Wheatbelt community members to approach their local authority if they have a proposal to improve their airport. Owners and operators of existing or proposed publicly accessible airports are eligible to apply for funding for 2012-2013.”
