Much needed improvements at 44 remote and isolated aerodromes will now proceed following the approval of funding from the Rudd Labor Government’s Remote Aerodrome Safety Program (RASP).

Communities across Australia – from Karumba in the north to Flinders Island in the south and from Lord Howe Island in the east to Cotton Creek in the west – will share in $5.9 million.

A full list of projects approved under Round 3 of the Program is attached.

Finalisation of this round brings the total number of upgrades funded under RASP to 116. Thus far we’ve allocated $13.5 million to projects collectively worth more than $25 million.

Through RASP, the Rudd Labor Government is helping to maintain access for the nation’s remote and isolated communities to air services such as essential supplies, mail, passenger transport and medical care like that provided by the Royal Flying Doctor Service.

This is particularly important where road access is unavailable, unreliable or disrupted for extended periods due to the wet season.

I would like to thank state, territory and local governments for their continuing strong support of the Program.

The next round of the Remote Aerodrome Safety Program is expected to be open for applications in early 2010.

More information about the Remote Aerodrome Safety Program can be found at: www.infrastructure.gov.au/transport/programs/aviation/rasp_programme.aspx