The Leader of the Nationals in the Senate, Ron Boswell, today announced a total of $126,150 in funding for the Karumba and Burketown Airports as part of the Australian Government’s $35 million Regional Airport Funding Program to upgrade security infrastructure. The Karumba Airport will receive $91,500 for a security upgrade including the installation of a PA system, additional locks, improved fencing and lighting. The Burketown Regional Airport will receive $34,650 for the first stage of security upgrades at the airport including the installation of security fencing with gates. Senator Boswell said the Australian Government was determined to do all it could to protect the security of Australia’s aviation industry. “The people and businesses that use these airports in the Gulf region every day of the year will benefit from the Australian Government’s commitment to upgrade safety measures at regional airports,” he said. The Karumba and Burketown Regional Airports became security-controlled airports on 10 March 2005.  These two airports, along with 145 other regional airports, are now required to have a transport security program approved by the Australian Government to strengthen aviation security around the country. Senator Boswell said transport security programs were tailored to local conditions. “The Australian Government recognises the importance of aviation to regional communities such as Karumba and Burketown,” Senator Boswell said. The Australian Airports Association has worked closely with the Australian Government to negotiate the funding arrangements for Karumba Airport and Burketown Regional Airport. More details – Leah Nicoll (Office of Senator Boswell) on 3001 8150