Benalla Rural City Council is inviting the community to have their say on the draft Benalla Airport Master Plan, which sets out a long-term vision for how the airport can continue to serve and support our region.
The draft Benalla Airport Master Plan presents a roadmap for the development of Benalla Airport over the next 20 years. It strengthens the airport’s role as a key economic, social and recreational hub in North East Victoria, supporting aviation, tourism, local business and the broader community.
Mayor Cr Bernie Hearn said the draft Benalla Airport Master Plan was shaped through extensive engagement with stakeholders across aviation and non-aviation sectors and outlines a shared vision for the airport’s growth.
“We know how important the airport is to our local identity and economy,” Cr Hearn said.
“The draft Benalla Airport Master Plan gives us direction on priorities and impact into the future. It protects the airport’s history and natural environment, while also making room for new ideas, safety and jobs.”
Key priorities in the Plan include upgrading runway 08/26 to accommodate larger aircraft, expanding taxiways and aprons, developing new hangar precincts and improving drainage and access infrastructure.
The Plan also looks beyond aviation to meet the needs of visitors and the wider community, proposing mixed-use precincts and visitor accommodation to support local tourism and economic activity.
Importantly, the Plan aligns with the National Airports Safeguarding Framework, incorporating measures for airspace protection, noise management and heritage preservation. This includes a recommended heritage overlay for significant structures, such as the BARC huts.
A copy of the draft Benalla Airport Master Plan can be downloaded from www.haveyoursay.benalla.vic.gov.au. It can also be viewed at or obtained from Council’s Customer Service Centre, 1 Bridge Street, Benalla, between 9am and 4pm Monday to Friday.
Submissions can also be made by sending a written submission to Benalla Rural City Council, PO Box 227, Benalla VIC 3672, or emailing it to council@benalla.vic.gov.au
Submissions close at 5pm, Friday 3 October 2025.