Wagga Wagga City Council has endorsed a key report which paves the way for the establishment of an Airport Special Purpose Committee before the end of the year.
The report outlines the proposed membership structure and governance framework for the new committee, which will strengthen oversight and strategic planning for one of the Riverina’s most significant regional assets.
The endorsement comes ahead of the airport’s current lease expiring in June 2026, while a decision on lease renewal is anticipated in coming weeks from the Department of Defence.
Three Councillors – Cr Amelia Parkins, Cr Jenny McKinnon, and Cr Richard Foley – have already been appointed to serve on the Committee beside Mayor of the City of Wagga Wagga, Dallas Tout, together providing elected member representation and oversight.
Mayor Tout welcomed the outcome, noting that the airport is one of the most important transport gateways in NSW.
“For many years, Wagga Wagga Airport has been providing essential connections for our residents, for businesses, Defence operations, and education and health services, while also supporting pilot training, maintenance and general aviation,” he said.
“To that end, this decision reflects Council’s ongoing commitment to recognising and supporting the vital role it plays – and will continue to play – in both the region’s future and the community’s day-to-day needs.”
An Expression of Interest process is currently underway for all other positions on the new committee, where up to five external members with expertise in aviation, infrastructure, regional development or community leadership, are being sought.
Executive Manager, Regional Activation – Projects, Christine Priest said the establishment of the group and its governance framework represents a positive and proactive step forward.
“The creation of this committee paves the way for the airport’s continued growth and success, built on genuine collaboration between Council, the community and industry partners,” Ms Priest said.
“By bringing together the right mix of local government representation, industry and community expertise, we’re ensuring the right voices are at the table to help shape the best possible future for this essential regional asset.”
Council is prioritising the Committee’s establishment to enable its first meeting to be held before the end of 2025. The Committee will operate for a maximum term ending 1 July 2026, unless extended by Council resolution.
For more information and to apply to be part of the committee visit wagga.pulsesoftware.com/Pulse/jobs.
Applications close on Friday 14 November.
