Remote Australian councils needing to improve airstrip infrastructure can now apply for federal funding under round four of the Remote Airstrip Upgrade Programme.

The previous round of funding saw $20,000 for emergency lighting approved for Bollon's airstrip in Queensland, $82,641 for fencing upgrades at Wurrumiyanga in the Northern Territory, $68,410 for a re-seal of the runway at Cleve in South Australia and $1.5 million to replace the subgrade surface of the Carnarvon airstrip in Western Australia.

The 2015–16 Federal Budget allocated $33.7 million over four years to support improved safety and accessibility at remote airstrips; this is the second round of funding the current government has delivered under this commitment.

Minister for Infrastructure and Regional Development Darren Chester says out of the 76 applications for funding in the previous round, 52 projects had funding approved.

 “For many communities, air services are essential for providing mail, supplies, transport and medical care to residents. Improving safety and access at airstrips will mean a better quality of life for people living and working in some of the most remote parts of Australia,” Chester says.

“I look forward to seeing works start on a range of projects across the country, as we continue to deliver a strong network of remote airstrip infrastructure across the nation.”

Applications will remain open for six weeks to give communities the best chance at developing strong proposals.

Applications will close on 21 October 2016. Information, including the application form, can be found on the Department's website.