Rick Wilson delivers $14.6m to upgrade Albany Regional Airport and complete beginning of Airport Master Plan

Part of Albany Regional Airport is now guaranteed to receive an upgrade with $14.6 million in Federal Government funding announced earlier this month. The money, delivered under round two of the growing regions program, will fund the first stage of the City of Albany’s $30m Albany Airport Master Plan 2043. Federal member for O’Connor Rick Wilson said the airport funding was among $37m dedicated to important South Coast infrastructure projects. “The airport is a critical transport hub for the Great Southern region, and I was proud to endorse the city’s application for much‑needed works,” he said. “Under the project, the runway, taxiway and apron will be improved, and the passenger terminal and car park will be expanded.” The city-owned asset serviced more than 77,000 passengers last year and is a key gateway in and out of the Great Southern. Mayor Greg Stocks said the city is “grateful” for the funding that assists in the “crucial” developments to the airport. “This funding will provide important upgrades to extend the longevity of the Albany Airport runway and ensure that it is equipped with the ability to accommodate larger carriers that will support fly-in, fly-out, tourism and business industries,” he said. “Albany airport’s capacity to accommodate interstate flights would be a consideration for the future.” Mr Wilson also announced $5.2m for the Southern Aboriginal Corporation’s Kairli Cultural and Language Centre, $14.9m for a community hub on James Street in Esperance, and $2.1m for Berridge Park developments. Both the WA Liberals and Nationals have promised to commit an additional $14m to fund the rest of the upgrades if elected on March 8.