Planning and development

The Department's aim is to influence planning and development decisions that will achieve the best aviation industry and environmental outcomes for the community.

Perth International Airport

Perth International Airport is a key piece of transport infrastructure vital to the development of the State's economy.

Recognising the strategic importance of the airport, the Department  liaises with Westralia Airports Corporation (WAC), the owner of Perth International Airport, on a range of issues including the expansion of international flights and development of air freight into Perth.

Perth International Airport is on land leased by the Commonwealth Government, and its operations and planning fall under the jurisdiction of the Federal Minister for Infrastructure, Transport, Regional Development and Local Government, the Hon Anthony Albanese MP. However, given the significance of Perth Airport as a major transport node in a strong economy, the State participates in discussions with the Federal Department of Infrastructure, Transport, Regional Development and Local Government, the Civil Aviation Safety Authority, Airservices Australia and Westralia Airports Corporation as appropriate.

Situated about 12 kilometres south of Perth's CBD, Jandakot Airport is Western Australia's major General Aviation (GA) airport and one of the busiest GA airports in the southern hemisphere. The State Government recognises Jandakot is a vital piece of infrastructure.

Discussions regarding the possible relocation of Jandakot Airport resulted in correspondence from the (then) Federal Minister Mark Vaile MP stating in December 2006 that "the Government remains committed to the Jandakot airport site and is of the view that the long-term airport lease on the existing airport site should remain. No indication should at this time be given that the Australian Government is in any way inclined to support the proposal to relocate Jandakot Airport."

Aircraft noise from Jandakot Airport has been an ongoing issue for Perth's southern suburbs which are developing around it. In 1999, the Department of Transport brought together the airport owner, the aviation industry, government agencies, local councils and community groups to determine an agreed position on aircraft operations at the airport.