Mildura Airport is set to fly with the Andrews Labor Government announcing plans to extend the runway in a win for tourism and the economy across the Sunraysia region.
Treasurer Tim Pallas and Minister for Regional Development Jaala Pulford today announced more than $5 million towards the $25 million Runway Extension Project to support visitor and freight demand at Victoria’s largest and busiest regional airport.
The upgrade will extend the maximum runway length – allowing heavy aircraft to operate at heavier weights in hot weather – and provide new runway end safety areas, more runway lighting and blast fences at runway ends.
When complete, the project will create up to 700 direct and indirect jobs long term and generate more than $20 million in economic benefits each year.
It’s a win for tourism to the region, with improved links to major centres like Melbourne and Adelaide.
It’s also a win for the agricultural supply chain that will see reduced braking and take-off related costs support national and international market access.
An extended runway will support the projected increase in passenger numbers at the airport, which is forecast to double over the next 10 years with 102,000 visitors expected to visit Mildura each year by 2030.
The Labor Government’s $500 million Regional Jobs and Infrastructure Fund supports projects across regional and rural Victoria that build critical infrastructure, create jobs, help create dynamic communities and put people first.
Quotes attributable to Treasurer Tim Pallas
“We were elected to put people first right across Victoria, and we’ve spent every day of the last two years achieving that by building a state that is stronger and fairer.”
“Through the Andrews Labor Government’s investment, more people will be able to experience Mildura and our gateway regions more often.”
Quotes attributable to Minister for Agriculture and Regional Development Jaala Pulford
“We’re investing in infrastructure projects that support regional economies grow and put people first.”
”By upgrading Mildura Airport, we’re boosting jobs and supporting the visitor economy and the agricultural supply chain that relies on efficient access to freight movement.”
Reviewed 19 August 2020