The upgraded Kangaroo Island airport will bring more tourists to South Australia and drive growth and investment in the local community as part of the Turnbull Government’s plan for a stronger economy.
We’re backing business to invest and create jobs and the completion of the $18 million upgrade is expected to attract 25,000 new tourists and boost the Kangaroo Island economy by $29.8 million annually.
The upgraded airport will help extend Kangaroo Island’s tourism season and boost private sector investment.
This means more families spending more, investing more and driving more jobs and confidence in the local community.
The upgrade, jointly funded by the Turnbull Government and South Australian Government, will help increase the island’s exposure to new domestic and international tourism markets.
Both Governments have also agreed to assist Council in finalising the upgrade by providing an additional $2.5 million in total to help meet unexpected costs.
A range of works, including improvements to the existing runway, taxiways and lighting, has raised the airport’s airside facilities to International Air Transport Association (IATA) Class C standards.
These works enable the airport to provide direct air access to east coast markets, which will help increase the number of domestic and international tourists.
Airport security has also been improved with the addition of a new check-in area, a secure departure lounge and revamps of the passenger and baggage screening area.
Visitors to Kangaroo Island Airport will benefit from a range of new services including a new retail area, an arrivals lounge, car-hire offices, storage facilities and a pick-up and drop-off area with an electric vehicle charging point.
These improvements will provide visitors to Kangaroo Island Airport with quality amenities, and make visiting the island more attractive.
This project supported 20 jobs during construction and will help sustain another six ongoing local jobs.
The Turnbull Government is committed to building a strong regional Australia, with community grants programs investing directly in economic and social infrastructure improvements to create jobs and build stronger regional communities.