The Deputy Prime Minister, Micheal McCormak, will continue as the Minister for Infrastructure, Transport, and Regional Development, with the airport sector enthusiastic about this appointment.
Australian Airports Association (AAA) Chief Executive Officer ,Caroline Wilkie, said Minister McCormack’s continued leadership of the portfolio would provide stability for the airport industry.
“The AAA looks forward to continuing to work with Minister McCormack as Australian airports invest to support tourism and trade with destinations around the world,.”
Ms Wilkie said the AAA was particularly pleased Minister McCormack would oversee the implementation of the $100 million regional airport fund announced earlier this year.
The fund was confirmed as part of the 2019-20 Federal budget, with the first round of funding to be available from July.
“The announcement of a regional airport fund in April was a gamechanger for our regions and we look forward to the first grants being awarded in the coming months,” Ms Wilkie said.
“The fund will allow regional airports to complete essential maintenance and upgrades to keep their operations compliant and safe – and in some cases save regional airports from closure.
“We are pleased Minister McCormack will oversee this process after announcing the creation of the fund earlier this year.
“The AAA looks forward to confirming the selection process soon to ensure communities can realise the benefits of this vital funding as soon as possible.
“We look forward to continuing our discussion with these key portfolios on the importance of a strong and sustainable aviation network to support Australia’s future prosperity.”
