Transport Minister Simon O'Brien said the Regional Airports Development Scheme (RADS) funding aimed to improve aviation infrastructure and services ensuring regional airports were developed and maintained to support community, business and tourism needs.

“The grants aim to boost tourism and regional development and improve access to basic air services such as the Royal Flying Doctor,” Mr O’Brien said.

“Successful applicants can use the funds for ‘airside’ projects such as installing runway lighting, upgrading airstrips and erecting animal exclusion fencing. 

“With recent changes to the eligibility criteria, the grants may also be put towards some ‘landside’ improvement projects such as developing terminal buildings and installing security equipment.”

The Minister said financial support was generally based on joint funding.

“Applications for more than 50 per cent of the total cost may be considered depending on the circumstances of the individual request,” he said.

“There is a lower limit of $10,000 but no upper limit.

“Submissions are assessed on criteria including the type of project, benefit to the community or region, integration with the airport master plan and environmental management.”

Grants for projects in 2008-09 included $240,000 to build a new airport at Eco Beach, $250,000 to seal the runway at Marble Bar and $39,000 to construct a parallel taxiway at Manjimup.

Community members are urged to approach their local authority if they have a proposal to improve their local airport.

Owners and operators of existing or proposed publicly accessible airports are eligible to apply for funding in 2009-10. Applications will be accepted from a duly authorised delegate.

Application forms and more information about RADS can be found at http://www.dpi.wa.gov.au/aviation

Submissions close by Friday, March 20.

Minister's office  - 9213 6400

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