The Albanese Government has secured Wagga Wagga Airport's long-term future following agreement for a new 50 year lease between Wagga Wagga City Council and the Department of Defence.
The new lease will build on a longstanding partnership between Council and Defence and provides the certainty needed to continue operating, maintaining and investing in the airport, while ensuring Defence retains access to support operations at RAAF Base Wagga.
As a critical gateway for the Riverina and southern NSW, Wagga Wagga Airport connects communities, supports local businesses and industry, and contributes to economic growth across the region.
The airport currently operates as a shared civilian and military facility on Defence-owned land alongside RAAF Base Wagga, making it vital to both regional connectivity and Defence capability.
Under the new agreement, Council will continue to manage the airport, supported by established regional partnerships and a clear long-term vision for growth. Through ongoing investment and improvements, the airport will remain a valuable community asset and an important Defence capability hub for decades to come.
Securing the future of Wagga Wagga Airport supports the Albanese Government's commitment to strengthening Defence capability, growing regional economies and ensuring communities that host Defence facilities share in the economic benefits they generate.
Quotes attributable to Assistant Minister for Defence, the Hon. Peter Khalil MP:
"This is great news for Wagga and a great example of the Albanese Government working with local communities to deliver long-term outcomes that support both Defence capability and regional growth.
"The new agreement locks in the future of the Airport and gives Council the certainty it needs to continue investing in this critical piece of regional infrastructure.
"RAAF Base Wagga is a critical part of Defence's base network, but it's also an important economic asset for the region, helping connect people, businesses, and communities across the Riverina.
"The Albanese Government is committed to investing in the infrastructure and partnerships that help keep Australians safe while creating opportunities for regional communities to prosper.
"Council has successfully managed the airport for many years and is well placed to lead this next chapter of growth and development."
Quotes attributable to Senator for New South Wales, Deborah O'Neill:
"For local businesses, this means better connectivity and greater certainty to invest, grow and create jobs across the Riverina.
"The airport also plays an important role in connecting Riverina communities with the rest of NSW and Australia, making it easier for people to travel for work, education, health care and family.
"A strong regional airport supports the broader local economy. From tourism and hospitality to freight, aviation and other businesses that rely on reliable connections."
