What’s Happening?
Shadow Minister for Infrastructure, Transport and Regional Development, Senator Bridget McKenzie, and Federal Member for Capricornia, Michelle Landry MP, have pledged a $20 million election commitment for Rockhampton Airport. The funding will support a seventh aircraft bay (Bay 7) and the development of a freight hub, enhancing the airport’s role in military operations and regional exports.
Why It Matters?
This commitment strengthens Rockhampton’s position as a regional aviation hub, improving efficiency for military exercises such as Exercise Wallaby and Talisman Sabre. The planned freight hub will also benefit Central Queensland’s agriculture and export industries, allowing faster, more direct access to national and international markets.
Local Impact
Michelle Landry emphasised the airport’s importance as a key economic driver, handling over 500,000 passenger movements annually. The upgrades will boost local employment, enhance defence logistics, and position Rockhampton as a freight and transport hub.
“Rockhampton Airport is the beating heart of our region’s transport network… This commitment will ensure Rockhampton Airport can handle increasing military traffic while also laying the groundwork for a freight hub that will connect our world-class beef and agricultural products to global markets faster and more efficiently,” Ms Landry said.
By the Numbers:
- $20 million investment for Rockhampton Airport expansion.
- 500,000+ annual passenger movements already supported by the airport.
- $44 million+ in previous federal funding for Rockhampton Airport over the past decade.
Zoom In
This funding will increase the airport’s capacity for larger aircraft, supporting key military operations and commercial flights. The new freight hub will open direct export pathways for Central Queensland’s beef and agriculture industry, creating local jobs and driving economic growth.
“This infrastructure investment will help local businesses access national and international markets, strengthening the regional economy and securing Rockhampton as a key freight centre in Central Queensland,” Senator McKenzie said.
Zoom Out
Rockhampton Airport’s role in regional development has been largely overlooked by Labor, according to Ms Landry, who criticised the government’s lack of regional infrastructure investment. The LNP’s commitment aims to secure Capricornia’s economic future by prioritising long-term development and industry growth.
“Labor has ignored regional infrastructure for too long. The LNP is stepping up with real investment to secure Capricornia’s future,” Ms Landry said.
What to Look for Next?
- Updates on the airport expansion project timeline.
- Potential federal funding allocations for regional airport infrastructure.
- Economic impact reports on the new freight hub’s benefits for Central Queensland businesses.
