$298M regional aviation grant applications open

The Federal Government have announced $298 million in support for the country’s regional airline network.

Applications have now opened and guidelines have been released for two new major initiatives to protect the sector during COVID-19.

Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for Infrastructure, Transport and Regional Development Michael McCormack said the grants offer vital support to regional communities which rely on air services for urgent transport, medical supplies and personnel.

“The Federal Government has been focused on securing a regional aviation network during the pandemic so residents can access their capital cities for essential services and medical freight supplies,” Mr. McCormack said.

He said the application process has been opened as quickly as possible to ensure the aviation industry is able to access the support it needs to operate these crucial services.

“This funding will ensure a basic level of air connectivity is maintained to regional locations during this crisis, by funding operators for one service per week on each route for an initial period of up to six weeks.”

There are around 138 regional locations serviced by regional services which could benefit from the initiative.

Mr. McCormack said the Federal Government will also be providing direct financial support to smaller regional airlines, ensuring they remain viable during this unprecedented downturn in aviation activity.

All airlines, contracted aero-medical providers and other essential industry service providers are encouraged to review the guidelines as they may be eligible for assistance on a month-by-month basis through to 30 September 2020.