PORT Macquarie Airport could benefit from a state government funding pot.
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Up to $50 million is available through Restart NSW: Regional Tourism Infrastructure Fund to develop regional airports to boost tourism in 30 regional areas.
Port Macquarie MP Leslie Williams said the expressions of interest process would be open for 30 eligible regional airports including Port Macquarie, Taree and Lord Howe Island.
"The NSW government is committed to building the infrastructure that makes it as easy as possible for residents and visitors to see as much as they can," she said.
"Regional airports play a critical role in local communities around the state, providing vital jobs and creating opportunities that facilitate regional tourism growth."
Port Macquarie-Hastings Council will be looking to participate in the expressions of interest process.
Mayor Peter Besseling said the airport was a vital asset to our community and a key piece of infrastructure for the future economic development of our area.
"Council will investigate the criteria associated with any grant application and how this might be used to support infrastructure improvements at the airport site," he said.
"The Airport Master Plan has been adopted by council and outlines a 20-year vision for the airport, which underpins our region's growth, economic development and tourism potential.
"Additional grant funding opportunities for the airport are considered and pursued by council as we seek to ensure our airport is the premier gateway to the NSW Mid-North Coast."
The most recent improvements - a $21 million upgrade to the runway, taxiway and apron - was funded through $15 million from the federal government and $6 million from the council.
Port Macquarie Airport is council-owned and operated as a commercial business unit of council, and is self-funded by revenue received from airport operations.
The state government recognises the tourism industry makes a significant contribution to the economic prosperity of NSW and has set a goal to double overnight visitor expenditure in the state by 2020.
NSW Business Chamber Mid North Coast regional manager Kellon Beard said investing in regional airport infrastructure would help the area reap the financial benefits of a robust and vibrant visitor economy and ensure NSW maintained its position as the number one tourism destination in Australia.
Expressions of interest to the Infrastructure Fund close on March 31.