The $100 million pot of funds can be used for safety upgrades.

Airport operators are being encouraged to to investigate if the funds may help with further improvements.

The latest funding would enhance the two-staged upgrade currently nearing completion at the Port Macquarie airport.

Stage 1 of the upgrade opened in June 2019 and included an expanded departure lounge that doubles the previous seating capacity, new café, passenger-screening, accessible amenities and dedicated car rental areas.

The first stage of works also includes the installation of ducted air conditioning throughout the terminal, Wi-Fi connectivity and the installation of improved flight information displays

Stage 2 is on track for completion at the end of 2019.

The upgrade to the terminal building is a $9.875 million project funded through a $5 million contribution from the NSW government under the restart NSW regional tourism infrastructure fund and $1.25 million from the federal government.

Council contributed up to $3.625 million to the project.

Federal MP Dr David Gillespie says the guidelines to the regional airports program is now available, giving airport owners and operators more information on their eligibility for the program.

"Our government has committed $100 million over four years to support owners of regional airports deliver safer runways, taxiways and other safety upgrades such as new fencing or safety equipment," he said.

"This program is aimed at helping regional airports meet the needs of communities and local industry both now and into the future.

"I'd like to encourage our airport operators to check out the guidelines and see whether the fund may help with further improvements."

Owners and operators of any regional airport who can identify a real need for an upgrade are urged to make an application under Round 1 when they open on October 24 2019.

Applications for Round 1 close on December 12 2019 to provide communities with the time needed to make strong proposals.

CEO of the Australian Airports Association Caroline Wilkie welcomed the announcement.

"With so many regional airports struggling to make ends meet, access to funding for essential maintenance and upgrades will be a game changer for the regions," Ms Wilkie said.

"Our regional airports are the lifeblood of their communities and this funding will help them meet the needs of local people and businesses for years to come.

"This is an important step towards ensuring a strong, safe and vibrant regional airport network for the benefit of all Australians."

Regional Aviation Association of Australia (RAAA) CEO Mike Higgins said the announcement further demonstrates the continuing support of regional aviation by the coalition government.

"The RAAA looks forward to realising the benefits this program will provide in relieving cost pressures on regional airlines to help keep airfares as low as possible," he said.

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