Have your say on the next West Sale Airport Master Plan
Wellington Shire Council is pleased to announce the development of the West Sale Airport Master Plan 2025. Recognised as one of Council’s highest valued assets, West Sale Airport has a proud history dating back to the 1940s and continues to serve the community through defence pilot training, aero-medical operations, and other essential aviation activities.
Since 2019, aircraft movements have quadrupled, largely driven by the Royal Australian Air Force (RAAF) flight training. This strong growth underpins the need for a contemporary master plan that will ensure development aligns with long-term aviation and community needs.
What is an Airport Master Plan?
An Airport Master Plan is a high-level strategic framework that outlines a 20-year vision for the airport. The Master Plan will address a wide range of issues and opportunities, while balancing technical compliance, functionality, and a range of airport stakeholder input to form the basis for all future development including expansion and highlighting the airport’s potential.
To support this process, L+R Airport Consulting has been engaged to develop the Master Plan, bringing expertise in regional airport planning to help shape the airport’s future direction.
Consultation
Consultation kicked off in June 2025.
So far, we have received initial feedback to assist in developing a draft Vision Statement and a SWOT analysis through the drop-in sessions held in June with L+R consulting.
A survey on the Draft Vision Statement and 'SWOT' provided L + R with a range of feedback with feedback closing on 28 July.
Draft Vision statement
"West Sale Airport is a diverse aviation hub, supporting investment in the Gippsland region."
What’s Next
The project will move into 'Stage 3 – Strategy Development' where feedback on the Vision Statement and SWOT will be incorporated into concept plans for airside and landside development.
Critical planning parameters will be established based on aviation needs and opportunities. All requirements will be assessed in line with CASA standards to ensure compliance.
Over the coming months the new master plan for West Sale Airport will be drafted. The draft will then be released for comment and we expect this will be early 2026.
Thank you for having your say and helping plan for the future of West Sale!
If you would like to add your email to the email list for this consultation you can do so below.
