Regional airport owners and operators have until 28 July to apply for funding through Round 5 of the Federal Government's Regional Airports Program, with $15 million on offer for safety and accessibility upgrades.
Grants of between $20,000 and $5 million are available, covering up to 50 per cent of total project costs. Eligible works include runway resurfacing, fencing, lighting upgrades, safety training, and infrastructure to support the transition to net zero aviation technology. Airside ambulance and passenger shelters are also fundable under the program.
Infrastructure Minister Catherine King said the funding recognised the essential role regional airports play in their communities.
"In regional Australia where aircraft can double as the local postie, the shopping cart or the ambulance, having safe, secure and modern facilities aren't optional, they're essential," she said.
"By funding regional airport upgrades, we can improve the safety of passengers, aircraft and freight, and open the door for regional communities to domestic and global markets."
Round 5 follows four previous rounds that collectively delivered more than $120 million across 239 projects at airports and aerodromes nationwide.
Applications are open now. Further details on eligibility and how to apply are available at business.gov.au/grants-and-programs/regional-airports-program-round-5.