The Hon Peter Dutton – Leader of the Opposition, Federal Member for Dickson
Senator The Hon Bridget McKenzie – Shadow Minister for Infrastructure, Transport and Regional Development, Leader of the Nationals in the Senate
Mr Ben Small – Liberal Candidate for Forrest
3 April 2025
An elected Dutton Coalition Government will invest $16.2 million to support the construction of a new $65 million terminal building at Busselton Margaret River Airport, strengthening tourism, trade, and critical regional aviation services.
This project will benefit the entire Southwest region of Western Australia – including Margaret River, Dunsborough and surrounds.
Leader of the Opposition, the Hon. Peter Dutton MP, who was in Busselton for the announcement, said the investment will boost local economic growth and ensure the long-term sustainability of regional aviation.
“Now, more than ever, we must invest in productivity-enhancing infrastructure that supports regional communities.
Regional airports are economic lifelines—they drive tourism, create jobs, and ensure communities stay connected to essential services like healthcare, freight, and business opportunities.”
Shadow Minister for Infrastructure, Transport and Regional Development, Senator Bridget McKenzie said the Coalition Government was proud to assist local councils and airport owners across Australia to deliver upgrades,
ensuring regional airports can accommodate larger planes carrying more passengers.
“Regional airports are vital for tourism, economic development, and the health and wellbeing of our communities like here in Busselton.
“Passenger numbers at Busselton Margaret River Airport have increased tenfold over the past decade. This new terminal will ensure the airport can meet growing demand and continue serving the region for years to come.
“The Coalition is delivering real investment in practical infrastructure upgrades—because we understand the importance of keeping regional Australia connected and thriving.”
Liberal candidate for Forrest, Ben Small said that only an elected Coalition Government would continue to deliver tangible improvements for the community.
“The Coalition has an exciting vision for the Southwest that includes retaining our pristine beaches without towering turbines, supports jobs and housing growth, and now includes international flights for tourism and export freight opportunities right here in Busselton. It only seems fair that with thousands of Southwest FIFO workers leaving their families to generate billions in mining royalties for the country that we support them with a decent terminal.
“These investments can only happen if you can fight for our fair share of funding in Canberra as part of a government team, just like the outgoing Member for Forrest Nola Marino was able to do with the Bunbury Outer Ring Road.”
This commitment is part of the Coalition’s plan to invest in our regional infrastructure and get our country Back on Track.