The Gillard Labor Government will provide up to $19 million for new and upgraded infrastructure and facilities at Port Macquarie, Kempsey and Taree airports, as part of this week’s Budget.

Minister for Infrastructure and Transport, Anthony Albanese made the announcement in Kempsey today with the Member for Lyne, Rob Oakeshott.

Minister for Regional Australia, Regional Development and Local Government, Simon Crean said that the funding for the Mid North Coast regional aviation plan was further proof of the Government’s commitment to regional Australia.

“We are absolutely committed to working with local and regional communities to identify and deliver local economic priorities, like the Mid North Coast regional aviation plan.

“The plan will support hundreds of jobs during construction, provide training opportunities and support jobs and businesses over the longer term in the region.”

“The Member for Lyne, Rob Oakeshott, has been a strong supporter of this project and the Government is pleased to commit funding to it,” Mr Crean said.

Mr Albanese said that this was a major economic infrastructure project for the Mid North Coast.

“It’s part of the Mid-North Coast regional aviation plan, which was put together by the three local councils. It’s now in the federal Budget; it will support jobs and be a great economic boost for the region.

“The Gillard Labor Government understands the role aviation plays in connecting regional communities, as well as in stimulating regional growth,” Mr Albanese said.

Mr Oakeshott said this federal funding for airport facilities at Port Macquarie, Taree and Kempsey provides enormous opportunity for our region to access other markets and for additional dollars to come into the local economy.

“The key drivers for economic prosperity in our region are the broadening of our economic base, lifting education and workforce participation rates and providing the environment for existing businesses to expand.

“It is a major economic boost for the Mid North Coast we now push to see this work underway as soon as possible,” he said.

The plan:

• Upgrades, extends and strengthens the main runway at Port Macquarie to cater for up to B737-800 and A320 series aircraft;


• Funds the first stage of construction of new general aviation business precincts, including taxiways, aprons, hangar sites and access roads at Kempsey and Taree;


•  Resurfaces the existing runway at Kempsey; and


• Upgrades the passenger terminal building and car parking at Port Macquarie.