The Federal Government has announced a significant boost in funding for the Remote Airstrips Upgrade Program (RAUP) and the Regional Airports Program (RAP), ensuring the continuation of these vital initiatives.
Increased Funding for RAUP and RAP
Minister for Infrastructure, Transport, Regional Development, and Local Government, Catherine King, highlighted the new funding allocations. The RAUP will receive an additional $50 million over the next three years to enhance the safety and accessibility of remote airstrips, especially for individuals with disabilities.
“The Remote Airstrip Upgrade Program will be extended with an additional $50 million over three years, to improve the safety of remote airstrips and accessibility for people with disabilities,” said King.
The RAP will also benefit from an additional $40 million in competitive grant funding over the next three years, starting from 2024-25.
Funding for Remote Aerodrome Inspection Programme
In addition to the RAUP and RAP funding, the Federal Government will allocate $500,000 annually to the Remote Aerodrome Inspection Programme. This funding will support critical inspection services to ensure the safety of operations at remote airports.
“The program supports First Nations community aerodromes’ safety and allows the Royal Flying Doctor Service and others to safely land in remote communities,” King added.
Industry Response
The Regional Aviation Association of Australia (RAAA) has welcomed the government’s continued investment. RAAA CEO Rob Walker expressed appreciation for the funding, emphasising its importance for regional communities.
“The RAAA would like to acknowledge the ongoing investment by the government,” Walker said. “The continued safe operations of our member companies for the benefit of the regional communities they serve is of the utmost importance.”
“These investments ensure that people living in regional Australia continue to have access to essential goods and services and demonstrate that the Government also needs to be engaged and supportive of the aviation industry and the adoption of new technologies.”
Program Achievements
The RAUP has already funded 470 projects with a total investment of $115 million, including recent grants announced last week. The RAP, which started in the 2018-19 budget year, has invested $98.7 million into 114 projects, with the last round of grants issued in January 2023, completing the $100 million program.
Key Takeaways
- RAUP Funding: $50 million over three years to enhance the safety and accessibility of remote airstrips.
- RAP Funding: $40 million in competitive grants over three years starting from 2024-25.
- Inspection Programme: $500,000 annually for the Remote Aerodrome Inspection Programme.
- Industry Support: The RAAA supports the continued investment in regional aviation.
- Program Achievements: RAUP has funded 470 projects with $115 million, and RAP has invested $98.7 million into 114 projects.
