The Albanese Government is investing $16.2 million towards upgrading Whyalla Airport to ensure the community remains connected.
Whyalla Airport is one of the most important regional airports in South Australia, providing critical access to health services for the local community and boosting tourism in the Eyre Peninsula.
Qantas, the only airline servicing Whyalla, recently announced plans to phase out its smaller aircraft from its regional fleet and replace them with faster, newer planes with more capacity.
While this will benefit the regional economy, reducing travel times and boosting tourism in the area, it means the airport's runway needs to be upgraded to accommodate the larger aircraft.
The Albanese Government's investment will support those upgrades, strengthening the airport's runway to enable larger, heavier aircraft to land safely.
This is critical to ensure Whyalla Airport can continue to provide safe, regular air passenger transport, and maintain connectivity in the region.
It will also make a real difference for the community, local businesses and significant industries that rely on Whyalla Airport for essential services, delivering economic and social benefits to the region.
This is yet another demonstration of our Government investing in regional aviation connectivity, which we know is critical for our regions to thrive.
Quotes attributable to Minister for Infrastructure, Transport, Regional Development and Local Government, Catherine King:
"The Albanese Labor Government believes in maintaining a strong regional aviation network in Australia, and the upgrades to Whyalla airport are essential for that.
"This investment will ensure Whyalla locals and surrounding communities remain connected and have access to the critical services they require."
Quotes attributable to Senator for South Australia, Karen Grogan:
"I have been proud to stand alongside the Whyalla community in advocating for an upgrade to the Whyalla Airport Runway, and I am thrilled to be part of an Albanese Labor Government that has listened and is delivering.
"As locals know, Whyalla airport is not just a transport hub - it is a key facility for local business, a connection to vital services in the city, and a crucial healthcare facility enabling access to specialist and advanced care.
"Labor will never take our regions for granted, and we will always strive to find unique solutions to unique challenges."
