The Federal election was called on 28 March 2025. As this website is hosted by the Department of Infrastructure, Transport, Regional Development, Communications and the Arts, the site will only be updated with material in line with the Caretaker Conventions. Please note that the content of this site relates to the Australian Government’s existing policy.

Remote Airstrip Upgrade Program

Overview

The Remote Airstrip Upgrade (RAU) Program is part of the Australian Government's Regional Aviation Access Program.

The objective of the RAU Program is to enhance the safety and accessibility of aerodromes in remote and very remote areas of Australia. Safe, operational aerodromes are vital in the delivery of essential goods and services in remote and very remote communities, particularly where road access is unavailable, unreliable or disrupted for extended periods due to seasonal weather conditions. An effective airstrip, accessible all year round, improves the delivery of health care services such as those provided by the Royal Flying Doctor Service or other aeromedical providers, improves access to work and education opportunities and helps connect residents of remote communities.

In the 2024–25 Budget, the Australian Government announced an additional $50 million over three years to extend the RAU program.

Round Eleven

Round 11 was open for applications 4 November to 13 December 2024. Contact the Business Grants Hub with any inquires Business website.

As announced in the Aviation White Paper, eligible works under Round 11continued to include works to improve safety and accessibility, with the addition of works to support people with disability to access air services.

Round Ten

As part of the 2023-24 Budget, the Australian Government announced further funding for Round 10 of the RAU. 

On 9 May 2024, the Assistant Minister for Regional Development announced $13.4 million in funding for 21 projects.

Round Nine

On 4 August 2022, the Assistant Minister for Regional Development announced $14.9 million in funding for 55 projects.

Round Eight

On 4 May 2021, the Deputy Prime Minister and the Assistant Minister to the Deputy Prime Minister jointly announced $8.2 million in Australian Government funding for 46 projects.

Round Seven

On 6 May 2020, the Deputy Prime Minister and the Assistant Minister to the Deputy Prime Minister jointly announced $9.0 million in Australian Government funding for 45 projects.

Round Six

On 22 March 2019, the Minister for Infrastructure and Transport announced $10.2 million in Australian Government funding for 34 projects.