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
The Grant Opportunity Guidelines for RAU Round 11 have been released with total funding of $25 million available. Applications are open until 13 December 2024. Contact details for enquiries and other program information are available on the Business website.
As announced in the Aviation White Paper, this RAU round of competitive grants will continue to support works to improve safety and accessibility, but eligible works have also been expanded to include works to support people with a disability 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.