REGIONAL airports and aerodromes can get funding to help update and improve operations and access.
The state government has opened applications for the next round of the Support Regional Aviation initiative to allow for a share of the funding for upgrades, on a cost-share basis.
The funding can be used for things such as resealing runways, taxiways and aprons, upgrading fencing, replacing lighting and extending or upgrading terminal facilities.
Regional Development Minister Geoff Brock said regional airports were critical for the ongoing development and economic growth of regional centres.
“They are vital for essential and emergency services, the transport, tourism, health and business sectors in regional areas, connecting regional and remote communities to other parts of SA and the nation,” he said.
“Earlier this year a master planning process for 19 regulated regional airports identified future development opportunities for these facilities was needed to better service the needs of local communities.
“This initiative will provide councils and other authorities the opportunity to secure funding support to upgrade these vital aviation infrastructure assets.”
Mr Brock said this was in addition to more than $10 million in investment into major upgrades for regional airports, which includes an $18m upgrade to the Kangaroo Island airport to allow larger passenger planes to land and a $1.3m upgrade to Coober Pedy.
A study by the Australian Airports Association found regional Australian airports invested $185m in the 2015-16 financial year and employed more than 1700 people.
The same study found the authorities which operate them face significant financial pressure to maintain them to a safe and satisfactory level.
Last year funding helped support upgrades to Tumby Bay Aerodrome, Streaky Bay Aerodrome, Whyalla Airport, Renmark Airport, Port Lincoln Airport, Naracoorte Aerodrome Airport and Mount Gambier Airport.
The government is writing to councils and the Outback Communities Authority to encourage them to submit applications for funding.
- Applications close on Friday, October 27.