The NSW Government has provided $30,000 in funding for the development of a Newcastle Airport master plan which will drive airport upgrades and sustainability over the next 20 years.

Parliamentary Secretary for the Hunter, Scot MacDonald MLC, announced the funding and said the master plan will bolster tourism and economic benefits for the Newcastle region into the future.

“Newcastle Airport is a significant economic driver for businesses in the Hunter and the nearby regions, generating jobs and economic growth,” Mr MacDonald said.

A 2014 Economic Impact Assessment (EIA) found that the airport precinct supports at least 1,485 jobs, plus $856 million in business activity.

“This funding from the NSW Government will help to ensure the airport can cater for the increasing travel demand in the years to come, as well as providing certainty on the future of the Hunter economy for the local community,” Mr MacDonald added.

Deputy Premier and Minister for Regional Development, Skills and Small Business, John Barilaro, said the master plan will include analysis of market demand, airport capacity, ground use and environmental planning, along with land use proposals to help plan for the future.

“The NSW Government recognises the importance of Newcastle Airport as the largest regional airport in NSW, with 1.2 million passengers passing through each year and the potential for further growth in the coming years,” Mr Barilaro said.

“The Hunter Regional Plan 2036 identified Newcastle Airport as a key asset to link with international markets, so it’s important that a master plan is delivered.”

Last year the NSW Government provided $855,000 to support the fit-out of the international processing areas of the Terminal Expansion project.

“We also granted $11.1 million in funding for the Terminal Expansion project which increased terminal capacity for additional domestic services, creating more than 80 direct jobs across both projects,” Mr Barilaro added.

“These future developments play a major role in boosting the Hunter’s presence as Australia’s largest regional economy and we are committed to supporting the community along the way.”