The federal government intends to make the Mid-North Coast Aviation Plan a priority when money is allocated from the Priority Regional Infrastructure Program, or an existing fund.

Port Macquarie Airport would be the regional centre for passenger travel and jet services under an initiative with Kempsey Shire and Greater Taree City councils.

Kempsey and Taree airports would be centres for aviation training and maintenance.

Port Macquarie-Hastings Council director of corporate and business services Tony Leahy said the strategy was a collaboration between the three councils.

Council would be “extremely positive” about the prospect of a federal leg-up for the airports, he added.

“As you well know, we are looking to expand the airport.

“There is a sizeable amount of money required to do that, and any money from the federal government to allow the region to access better air services and business opportunities would be welcome.”

A memorandum of understanding already has been reached between Port Macquarie and Kempsey authorities.

Mr Leahy expected Taree to agree shortly.

Senior leader of economic development at Greater Taree City Council Chris Ryan said the decision would be made by council.

“We have had a look at the draft memorandum of understanding and shown it to council and it does fit in line with all our strategic directions,” Mr Ryan said.

“From Taree’s point of view, we identified an opportunity way back at the start to make the airport more sustainable and create an aviation-related business park.”

Mr Ryan said, while Port Macquarie focused on larger jets and passengers, Taree would concentrate on general aviation, including aircraft maintenance and avionics and more.

He assumed any funding application to the federal government would be made jointly by the three councils.

The priority consideration for funds was part of Lyne MP Rob Oakeshott’s deal with the Labor Party during the recent hung parliament crisis.