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RADS - Frequently Asked Questions
Find out answers to important questions about the Regional Airports Development Scheme.
When do funding applications open and close?
Applications for the 2025-27 RADS funding round opened on Friday 19 July and closed on Friday 23 August 2024. Future submissions for RADS grant rounds will be advertised publicly.
How do I know if my organisation is eligible?
Please check the eligibility criteria on the RADS overview page to see if your organisation is eligible to apply for a grant. Applications that do not meet the eligibility criteria are generally not accepted. Please contact the Aviation Infrastructure Team if you have any concerns.
What kinds of projects are supported?
See the ‘eligible projects’ section of the website to see the RADS eligible funding categories. If your project doesn’t fall under any of the categories listed, it may still be considered for funding if you can clearly demonstrate how it will benefit regional communities by improving air services and air safety.
Note that funding will not be provided for maintenance activities already funded by the Department of Communities’ Remote Essential and Municipal Services (REMS) Program (visit the Department of Communities website for more information).
Is there a time limit for projects to be completed?
Most RADS projects should be completed within 24 months, however, some larger projects may take more time. In such cases, please contact the Aviation Infrastructure team before submitting your application. If you encounter delays which impact your project schedule, you must inform DoT as soon as possible.
How will I know if my application was successful?
Both successful and unsuccessful applicants are notified in writing and successful projects are listed on the website when available. Successful applicants receive a letter offering a grant and detailing the next steps to take. If you have not received a letter, please contact the Aviation Infrastructure Team.
Can I obtain additional funding from another organisation?
Yes. However, it is generally expected that the applicant will fund 50% of the eligible estimated total cost. Should you secure funds from another private, State or Commonwealth agency you are required to notify the Department of Transport as soon as possible. If any third-party funding is successfully sourced, the total amount of your RADS grant may be reduced.
How much of the total project costs can I apply for?
RADS funding for more than 50% of the eligible estimated total cost is generally only approved when the organisation can demonstrate lack of available funds for the project. Strong justification as to why more than 50% funds are required must be included in your application.
Applicants seeking grant funding greater or equal to $500,000 should contact the Aviation Infrastructure Team before submitting an application.
What should I do if my approved project scope needs to change?
If your project scope requires amendment, you must advise the Aviation Infrastructure Team immediately to seek approval to amend your RADS funding deed.
How do I claim my grant?
Works must be completed before the RADS grant is paid. Grantees must not commence work on or order any goods or services associated with their RADS project until after the funding deed is executed (signed by both parties).
Information on how to claim your grant is available in the 'A Guide to Managing your Grant' brochure (refer to Managing your grant). This brochure, containing templates to assist grantees with the administrative requirements associated with their RADS grants, will be sent to successful grantees together with their funding deeds.
Can I still be paid the full grant amount if I spend less than expected?
No. Grant payment is determined by the amount of money actually spent by the grant recipient. Refer to your RADS Funding Deed for terms of payment.
Can I claim overheads and mark-ups for in-kind work?
No. For a full list of items not eligible for funding please refer to the RADS guidelines brochure.