Council secures funding for major runway upgrade
30 January 2025
After extensive behind-the-scenes lobbying on the community’s behalf, Whyalla City Council has managed to secure $30 million in State and Federal Government funding to enable the city’s airport runway to receive a major upgrade, while minimising the impact on local ratepayers.
The upgrade is critical to enable one of the city’s most strategically important assets to cater for larger aircraft. This will ensure it is equipped for the expected growth from major projects such as the State Government’s Hydrogen Jobs Plan, while also presenting a host of opportunities for Whyalla that will have positive flow-on effects for the entire region’s economy.
Council – which will contribute $2.4 million of its own budgeted funds to the $32 million project – has also selected the preferred contractor to deliver the project, with Fulton Hogan starting early planning work from as early as next week.
Mayor Phill Stone thanked both levels of government for their support of the city’s future.
“This shows the power of behind-the-scenes collaboration between local, state and federal government to achieve fantastic outcomes for our community,” Mayor Stone said.
“In particular, I’d like to thank Minister Tom Koutsantonis for his efforts to lobby on our behalf to secure $16.2 million in Federal funds and $13.8 million in State funds, as well as Minister Catherine King and Senator Karen Grogan for their support of this initiative.
“Both governments have recognised Whyalla as one of the most critical cities to the nation’s success through its steelmaking capability and renewable energy potential; as well as having an airport of strategic importance to the entire state.”
Mayor Stone said this would be a major project – one of the biggest council will have ever delivered – which will benefit the community both during construction and for decades to come.
“We anticipate a total workforce of more than 120 people, which will hopefully provide numerous benefits, with Fulton Hogan aiming to utilise about 40 people from the local job market for subcontractor labour roles such as truck drivers and electricians,” he said.
“This includes potential opportunities for those impacted by the recent mining job losses; as well as dozens of out-of-town contractors spending on food, accommodation and more generally across the local economy during a six-month period.”
Fulton Hogan General Manager – Airports and Defence Michael Thompson said the company would continue to deliver quality outcomes for the communities it works and lives in.
“As a leading contractor in airports and defence pavement construction and maintenance, Fulton Hogan are proud to deliver this project for one of the most important regional airports in South Australia,” Mr Thompson said.
“This critical investment will continue to boost the regional economy and support local businesses, including purchasing 90% of the construction material locally and ensuring direct employees stay and spend in Whyalla during the project.”
Mayor Stone also acknowledged Qantas for their willingness to continue operating throughout the project and being flexible to ensure the work could be completed in the tight timeframe required.
“Flights will continue to operate, so this shouldn’t have an impact if you need to fly while the work is underway,” he said.
"We’re also aware that flight affordability is a genuine concern for the community. While we continue to work closely with Qantas on this, we encourage residents to book in advance where possible for the best price, as well as monitoring regular and ongoing sale opportunities."
CEO QantasLink Rachel Yangoyan welcomed the announcement that will ensure Whyalla residents have reliable, ongoing connectivity.
“We welcome the announcement by the Federal and State governments, along with Whyalla City Council, to support the necessary runway upgrades at Whyalla Airport,” Ms Yangoyan said.
“Our investment in an all-Q400 fleet means larger aircraft flying to and from Whyalla, providing more seats and a faster journey for customers. A single fleet type for our turboprop flying will also help boost reliability for our regional flights.”