$17.8 million upgrades to Archerfield Airport lands jobs

The Palaszczuk Government is co-investing in extending the runway and other infrastructure upgrades at Archerfield Airport, generating 50 construction jobs.

Premier Annastacia Palaszczuk said her Government was co-investing in job-generating infrastructure.

“My Government is investing $13.8 million in the $17.8 million project to extend the main runway, and upgrade other supporting infrastructure, and work is already underway.

“These upgrades will help Archerfield Airport grow as an economic and employment hub, unlock further private sector investment and new business attraction.

“It’s projects like this that will help in Queensland’s economic recovery and long-term growth opportunities.”

Deputy Premier and Minister for State Development Steven Miles said the investment through the state’s Building Acceleration Fund (BAF) has provided the support needed to get the project off the ground.

“This investment will help Archerfield Airport grow as an economic and employment hub, creating opportunities for further private investment and new business attraction,” Mr Miles said.

“The works include extension to the main runway, and the upgrading of associated taxiways and other aviation infrastructure, for the airport’s transition to a major employment hub in the South West Industrial Gateway.

“This support is part of our government’s economic recovery plan.”

“The airport has over 115 aviation and non-aviation businesses supporting nearly 500 direct jobs and many more indirect jobs which will benefit from the infrastructure upgrades. 

“There’s opportunities in aeromedical, rescue and emergency aviation services for Queensland.”

Member for Algester Leeanne Enoch said that the 50 construction jobs created by this project was great news for the region.

“Our government is committed to investing in important infrastructure for local communities and this is a welcome upgrade to the airport’s facilities,” Ms Enoch said.

Works include earthworks, pavement works, installation of services, new ground lighting facilities and visual aids and the commissioning of the improved runway and infrastructure.

Rod Parry, General Manager of Archerfield Airport Corporation said the BAF initiative will bring forward several airside infrastructure improvements significantly, by a number of years.

“After a decade in the planning, it’s welcome news to have the State Government onboard to help deliver the essential infrastructure works Archerfield Airport really needs,” Mr Parry said.

“This will enable growth in next-generation aircraft movements in and out of Archerfield Airport; modern aircraft with low emissions and reduced noise footprints, and also assist us to attract and host additional aviation and aviation compatible businesses.” 

Interest in the Queensland Government’s Building Acceleration Fund initiative was overwhelming with 157 applications with a total value of requested funding of $1.377 billion received from developers, councils and industry across the state.

Archerfield’s runway construction works commenced in late October 2020.

ENDS

Media contact:           Amy Hunter – 0423 651 484