The Nationals have expressed support for the proposed Latrobe Aerospace Technology Precinct development at Latrobe Regional Airport.
Member for Eastern Victoria, Melina Bath and Member for Morwell, Martin Cameron recently received a comprehensive onsite briefing of the proposed precinct at Latrobe Regional Airport.
Ms Bath then advocated for the proposed development in state parliament.
Ms Bath said the Latrobe Aerospace Technology Precinct has identified strategic advantages including location, cost, land availability and manufacturing synergies.
“Latrobe Regional Airport is correctly zoned and has ample room to construct large working spaces and hangars for research and development, testing and manufacturing.
“Moorabbin Airport is at capacity, so looking at a regional location to develop the expanding aviation industry is sensible.
“Activating the council owned, commercially zoned land through an extension of the taxiway would facilitate development and provide access to land for the niche aviation market.
“This project has potential to generate hundreds of jobs in drones, aviation maintenance, general and recreation aviation operations, adding value to Gippsland’s regional economy.
“This is where Labor’s investment should be value-adding into Latrobe Valley, businesses must be encouraged to move to the regions where there is space, improved security, less cost, and more long-term viability.”
Mr Cameron said Latrobe Regional Airport currently offers a range of commercial and light aircraft aviation operations, which includes emergency response services.
“There is an existing skilled workforce supporting Australia’s only commercial aircraft manufacturer established at the airport, while Federation and Swinburne universities are both engaged onsite.
“Rather than closing industry down in our region, the Allan Government should be looking to invest in expanding the precinct, supporting small-scale manufacturing, research, and development, and creating a ‘launchpad’ for startups.”
