State Government Investment Boosts Regional Airports

• More than $3 million to be allocated to critical regional airport projects
• Funding has been allocated through the Regional Airports Development Scheme (RADS)
• 12 regional airports across WA will share in the funding
• Funding will help upgrade infrastructure and support safe and accessible air services
• Since 2009, more than $56 million in RADS funding has assisted 338 regional airport projects across WA

Regional and remote airports across the State will share in $3.6 million through the latest round of Regional Airports Development Scheme (RADS) grants to support safe and accessible air services.

Twelve airports were awarded grants through the 2025-27 round, providing critical funding for a range of infrastructure improvements.

Derby Airport has been awarded the largest grant of $650,000, subject to Federal Government funding support, to reseal and remark the runway, taxiway and apron pavement areas.

The airport is a crucial transport link for the region and supports a high number of Royal Flying Doctor Service (RFDS) landings, as well as regular public transport flights between Derby and Broome that are subsidised by the State Government.

Airports at the remote Aboriginal communities of Warburton, Jigalong and Punmu will also receive grants totalling approximately $1 million for projects that will enhance safety and support RFDS access.

Since 2009, 338 regional and remote airport projects throughout Western Australia have been awarded RADS grants totalling more than $56 million, in support of projects valued at approximately $133 million.

The latest RADS grants continue the Cook Labor Government's commitment to improving regional aviation infrastructure and services.

The RADS funding comes on top of the $29 million allocated in the 2024-25 State Budget for upgrades at Carnarvon, Onslow, Albany, Kununurra and Eucla and includes an $8 million allocation for the Aboriginal Community Airstrip Renewal Program in the Kimberley region.

For the full list of RADS 2025-27 grant recipients, visit http://www.transport.wa.gov.au/RADS

As stated by Transport Minister Rita Saffioti:

"In regional and remote areas, airports are the transport hubs that link people to lifesaving health services, loved ones and business opportunities in Perth and other regional centres.

"This funding will support critical projects at 12 regional and remote airports that will ensure they can continue to operate safely and service the transport needs of their communities.

"Our Government understands how critical aviation is to regional and remote communities, which is why we continue to make record investments that improve access and make flying more affordable for families."

2025-27 Regional Airport Development Scheme (RADS)