From today, selected regional airports across Australia are carrying out improved passenger screening processes. 
Under the Government’s Strengthening Aviation Security Initiative, regional airports servicing aircraft with a maximum takeoff weight of 20,000kg or more are required to commence passenger and checked bag screening from 1 July.
Regional airports play a critical role in our economy and connect communities across our vast expanses of land. For many people and businesses, flying is the only means of convenient transport across large distances.
Passengers on regional air services are entitled to the same protections of a safe and secure aviation system as any other air traveller.
To that end, we have invested $35 million to support the introduction of state-of-the-art security screening technology in regional airports, including walk through and hand-held metal detectors, X-ray machines for carry-on baggage and explosive trace detection.
A further $4.9 million has been made available to regional airports for minor modifications of passenger terminal facilities to help facilitate the new screening processes.
Passengers should allow themselves a few extra minutes to clear security before boarding their flight and in the same way they would for any other flight, make sure they are not carrying any prohibited items.
The decision to extend aviation security screening to selected regional airports implements one of the key recommendations of our Aviation White Paper.  
Australia leads the world when it comes to aviation safety and security and we are always reviewing our security and safety systems to ensure that they remain the world’s best. These new measures will make our skies even safer for passengers flying throughout regional Australia.
To find out how you might be affected on your next trip through regional Australia, pick up a brochure at your regional airport or visit http://travelsecure.infrastructure.gov.au/
 
BACKGROUND: Geraldton and Gladstone have already commenced screening, additional regional airports introducing security screening today are: Albany, Barcaldine, Blackall, Busselton, Bundaberg, Cloncurry, Devonport, Emerald, Esperance, Horn Island, Longreach, Moranbah, Olympic Dam, Port Lincoln, Ravensthorpe, Roma, Tamworth, Wagga Wagga and Weipa.