The Victorian Government has called on the Gillard Federal Government to support the expansion of Warrnambool Airport in the state's south-west
Visiting Warrnambool with the Member for South West Coast Denis Napthine, Victorian Aviation Minister Gordon Rich-Phillips said he was disappointed to learn earlier this week that the Commonwealth had rejected the airport’s bid for funding.
“The Victorian Coalition Government will provide $2 million if the Commonwealth contributes matched funding,” he said. "The Coalition Government recognises that Warrnambool’s aviation park precinct is important to the future of south-west Victoria.
“The expansion would create up to 20 jobs for the region’s growing energy industry and will help attract long-term investment.”
Rich-Phillips said money for Warrnambool Regional Airport had been earmarked from the government’s $20 million Regional Aviation Fund (RAF).
“The future of this project hinges on the Gillard Government’s support. The Coalition Government has made its contribution and the Commonwealth must now come to the table. There are a range of infrastructure upgrades ready to go ahead including new taxiways, access roads, drainage and essential services infrastructure.”
Member for South West Coast Denis Napthine said the Coalition Government recognised the opportunities the Warrnambool Airpark Project would deliver for the region.
“South-west Victoria is booming both in terms of population and business growth. This project presents the opportunity to further this growth by developing the region’s aviation industry and securing Origin Energy as a long-term tenant at the Airpark.
"The Coalition Government is committed to fostering further growth in South West Coast and I implore the Commonwealth Government to cooperate with us and the Warrnambool City Council in delivering this project."