The Victorian government will contribute $1.2 million towards the expansion of Latrobe Regional Airport in the state’s east.
The government money will fund the construction of a new car park, improved drainage systems, extended apron and taxiways, and runway lighting.
Aviation Minister Gordon Rich-Phillips said the government was
pleased to back the project.
“The funding will expand the airport’s operations and capacity and create new
opportunities for jobs and investors. The Coalition government’s investment
will create new jobs and support economic growth in the Latrobe Valley.”
Latrobe Regional Airport is home to commercial aircraft manufacturer GippsAERO, which is embarking on ambitious expansion plans with the introduction of the GA10 and twin turbo-prop GA18.
“GippsAERO employs 140 staff and estimates that it will require more than 300 when its expansion plans are implemented,” Rich-Phillips said. “A further 30 direct jobs are expected to be created from growth in the associated aerospace supply chain.”
Both Rich-Phillips and Member for Morwell Russell Northe called for the Federal Government to contribute to the project, which is seen as an important step for GippsAERO.