Remote Airstrip Upgrade Program applications open

Owners and operators of aerodromes in remote Australia can now apply for funding for essential airstrip upgrades.

Up to $25 million is available through Round 12 of the Remote Airstrip Upgrade (RAU) Program to improve airstrips in remote areas across Australia.

Grants ranging from $5,000 to $4 million are available for projects that improve aviation safety and accessibility, including:

  • runway resurfacing
  • lighting and fencing upgrades
  • safety training 
  • construction of airside ambulance and passenger shelters.

Applications open on 25 August and close on 6 October 2026.

Remote airstrips play a vital role in connecting isolated communities to essential services, providing access to emergency medical flights, critical supplies and regional centres.

The latest funding round builds on more than $140 million already committed through the previous 11 rounds of the RAU Program which has funded 512 projects across Australia.

Find out more