The Australian Government has provided $4.5 million in funding to complete the City of Greater Bendigo’s expansion of the Bendigo Airport terminal and adjoining business park.
City of Greater Bendigo Mayor, Andrea Metcalf, and Chief Executive Officer, Craig Niemann, have welcomed the funding, which is the final amount needed to start construction.
The announcement matches a previous commitment of $4.5 million from the Victorian Government, with the City also contributing $985,000.
Mayor Metcalf said it was a red-letter day for Greater Bendigo and central Victoria.
“The introduction of the Bendigo to Sydney Qantas service has been an unprecedented success and with an expanded terminal we will be able to welcome bigger planes, access new domestic travel opportunities and attract more tourists to the region,” Mayor Metcalf said.
“The complementary business park will also allow us to realise new business opportunities, investment and jobs that will arise from the additional flights.
“It is expected the project will support 49 jobs during the construction phase and create five full time jobs in the first year of operation and up to 19 jobs by 2030.
“We thank our funding partners for investing in this project and also our community for supporting the initial service.
“We are so excited by today’s news, this has been Council’s number one priority project for a number of years and we very much look forward to this next stage of construction at Bendigo Airport.”
The redevelopment will expand the building’s existing footprint and include a new departure lounge, provision for security screening area, waiting lounge, baggage claim, restroom facilities, new administration building and equipment shed.
The business park will include 21 lots connected to drainage, sewer and water services, roadworks and new car park, and improved lighting and landscaping in conjunction with Traditional Owners, the Dja Dja Wurrung.
Mr Niemann, said the City would move quickly to the tender process to appoint a contractor.
“This is fantastic news for our region and today’s announcement finalised the funding needed for the project, so we will be calling for construction tenders next week,” Mr Niemann said.
“I would like to acknowledge the Australian and Victorian Governments and thank all politicians we have met with over the years who have helped advocate for this project.
“This is an exciting project for Greater Bendigo and central Victoria, and we look forward to making future announcements about routes to new destinations and other investment opportunities. It’s onwards and upwards for the Bendigo Airport again.”
