The City of Karratha has ramped up its push for major regional investment during a recent trip to Canberra, advocating for priorities including international airport status, housing and critical infrastructure.

During the visit, the City met with the Department of Infrastructure to advance its application for international status at Karratha Airport.

The trip comes on the heels of the RCA and City providing submissions to the Productivity Commission inquiry and Senate inquiry examining regional aviation and airfare pricing.

Discussions held with Federal stakeholders showed strong recognition of the critical role regional centres play in supporting the national economy, along with encouraging support for initiatives that will help unlock future growth.

Advocacy efforts also focused on the need for continued investment in enabling infrastructure and programs that support housing supply and population growth in regional areas.

The discussions reinforced the importance of reinvesting in productive regional communities, which not only strengthens local economies but also contributes significantly to national output, jobs and government revenue.

Overall, the meetings highlighted the value of ongoing, consistent advocacy, with positive feedback received and optimism around future opportunities.

The delegation also focused on broader economic advocacy, highlighting the importance of reinvesting in highly productive regions like Karratha to drive national growth.