The Federal Government has approved a Major Development Plan for a third runway at Melbourne Airport, a project with an estimated cost of $3 billion. This development, fully funded by Melbourne Airport without government financial support, is anticipated to enhance the Victorian economy, notably its agriculture exports. The Victorian Farmers Federation (VFF) views this approval as beneficial for the state's agriculture sector, aiming to cement Victoria as a leading agriculture exporter in Australia.
According to VFF president Emma Germano, this expansion is crucial for securing agricultural jobs and increasing the global reach of Victoria's food and fiber products. The new runway is expected to bolster the agricultural supply chain, maintain competitive pricing for produce, and meet the soaring demand for air freight to Asia and the United States. Slated to open in 2031, this parallel runway system will expand Melbourne Airport's capacity, facilitating simultaneous aircraft operations and supporting Australian exports and travel for the coming decades. Melbourne Airport has been a key hub for the nation's air freight, handling a considerable volume of exports, including dairy, meat, and produce, to major markets like China, the United States, and Japan.
Source: Bellarine Times