For regional communities across New South Wales, airports are more than just transport hubs – they provide critical access to emergency healthcare, commerce, industry, tourism and education. Now, almost $12 million in new funding from the Albanese Labor Government will deliver essential upgrades at key regional airports under Round 4 of the Regional Airports Program.
The funding will support safety, accessibility and capacity improvements, including runway resurfacing, fencing, lighting and drainage upgrades.
Major runway extension for Merimbula Airport
One of the largest allocations goes to Merimbula Airport, where Bega Valley Shire Council will receive almost $3.8 million to deliver stage two of the airport’s runway extension. The project will add an 80m pavement extension at both ends, creating an 1,800m take-off length.
The extended runway will enable larger narrow-bodied aircraft to land, increasing the airport’s capacity to support emergency services, firefighting and military aircraft, as well as additional passenger services.
Federal Member for Eden-Monaro, Kristy McBain, welcomed the funding, saying: “Merimbula Airport is a critical access point for our community and emergency services during disasters, which is why I’m proud to deliver over $3.7 million towards this runway extension.
“This upgrade will support larger aerial firefighting tanker aircraft to land when we need them most, make it easier for larger military transport to operate out of the airport, and also increase the safety for in-flight emergency recoveries.
“The extended runway will also ensure Merimbula Airport continues to attract aircraft that support our local businesses and visitor economy – while keeping people connected to work, health services and family.”
Resurfacing works for Moruya Airport
In Moruya, Eurobodalla Shire Council will receive over $200,000 to reseal the runway, taxiways and apron pavement and replace the apron lighting.
This work will ensure the continued safe operation of the airport, allowing it to remain a vital hub for emergency services, including the RFDS and aerial firefighting operations – even at night and in low-visibility conditions.
Federal Member for Gilmore, Fiona Phillips, said the investment was essential for local residents. “I am absolutely delighted to see improvements at Moruya Airport which is a lifeline for our economy, cuts commuting times for local people, and helps get our local produce to national and international markets.
“Not only that, but many people rely on air services for healthcare, emergency services and to stay connected with family.
“This investment will create more jobs, help local farmers, and support our social and economic connections across Australia. It’s great news for our regions.”
Other NSW airport projects funded under Round 4
- Albury Airport – $5 million for a full runway overlay to improve safety and strengthen the surface for larger aircraft to land, supporting visitor levels and emergency services, particularly during bushfire season.
- Moree Regional Airport – $1 million to upgrade the aeromedical apron, taxiway and parking bays, creating a 24-hour aeromedical facility.
- Griffith Regional Airport – Almost $500,000 to replace the ageing runway lights, which is critical for safety and ongoing operations, especially for RFDS and NSW Air Ambulance.
- Mudgee Regional Airport – $220,000 to upgrade stormwater drainage, reducing prolonged closures due to heavy rain affecting passenger and emergency medical flights.
These projects are part of the Federal Government’s broader commitment to regional aviation, with nearly $100 million already delivered under the first three rounds of the Regional Airports Program.
Backing regional communities through aviation
Minister for Infrastructure, Transport, Regional Development and Local Government, Catherine King, said these investments will have a significant impact on regional communities.
“We’re backing regional communities by backing regional aviation, because we know our regions deserve access to critical services that only aviation can deliver.
“Upgrades like these aren’t just improvements, they’re the difference between regional residents getting medical help, firefighters getting access during an emergency and economies growing through tourism.
“We want our regions to remain connected to loved ones, healthcare and opportunity.”
More support for regional airports
Today’s announcement builds on the nearly $100 million already delivered to support 194 projects under the first three rounds of the program.
For more information, including a full list of Round 4 projects in NSW, visit: Regional Airports Program.
