Elsie Lange
The federal government has approved the Melbourne Airport Master Plan, but was firm in saying it has yet to give approval to the development plan of a proposed third runway, citing residential noise concerns.
Infrastructure, Transport, Regional Development and Local Government Minister Catherine King approved the master plan on Monday, November 14.
“Today’s approval does not indicate an approval of the future Major Development Plan for the proposed third runway, which is a separate process subject to assessment on its own merits against the requirements of the [Airports Act 1996],” Ms King said.
“As expected, many members of the communities surrounding the airport have made representations regarding their views on Melbourne Airport’s proposed north-south third runway project and the impacts it will have on their homes and lives.
“In providing today’s approval, I have indicated my concerns regarding some aspects of the proposal – including changes to the existing runways and noise sharing and mitigation arrangements.”
Ms King said management of residents’ concerns would be an important consideration during the assessment of the development plan, expected to be submitted in early 2023.
Hume mayor Joseph Haweil said council supported the proposed runway, but asked Melbourne Airport to continue to provide and explore noise and health measures to minimise impacts.
Cr Haweil said while it was unfortunate that any parts of the Hume community would be impacted by aircraft noise, the proposed north-south runway would impact less residents than the previously proposed east-west runway.
“Council has not seen the approved master plan at this stage,” he said.
“Council will continue to advocate for Melbourne Airport and the federal government to meaningfully listen and respond to both ours and our community’s submissions in the future assessment of the Major Development Plan for the third runway.”
A statement from Melbourne Airport said it welcomed the approval of the master plan, and it now plans to submit its proposal to build the third runway to the government for consideration.
Airport chief executive Lorie Argus said the updated master plan outlined a long term vision for Melbourne Airport and identifies infrastructure needed to keep pace with the growing population.
“Key to this is construction of a third runway, which will improve the efficiency of the airfield by introducing parallel operations, while also allowing the airport to cater for increased demand,” Ms Argus said.
“Alongside the 2022 Master Plan we are developing a sustainability strategy, with a commitment to net zero (Scope 1 and 2) by 2025, work underway on Scope 3 emissions reduction and a commitment to circular economy principles including on major infrastructure.”
