Media Release | 14 August 2026
Hon. Rob Horstman MLC
Shadow Minister for Emergency Services
Shadow Minister for Emergency Services Hon Rob Horstman MLC says the Eucla Airstrip is a critical lifeline for one of Western Australia’s most remote communities.
He is calling on the Cook Labor Government to urgently progress it’s long-promised upgrade – warning the remote community should not be left waiting any longer for critical transport and emergency infrastructure.
“When rain falls at Eucla, the airstrip can become unusable for the Royal Flying Doctor Service (RFDS), WA Police and emergency services. Even minor rainfall can render the unsealed runway dangerous, forcing aircraft to land on the Eyre Highway during medical emergencies,” says Mr Horstman.
While the State Labor Government committed $3.38 million in 2024, the project has failed to appear in recent State Budgets and construction has yet to commence.
Mr Horstman said the Government’s failure to honour its commitment was leaving remote communities exposed and delaying critical infrastructure they had long been promised.
“This is not a wish-list project—it’s essential infrastructure that can mean the difference between life and death. The Labor Government announced funding with great fanfare, yet there is no sign of the project progressing and no provision for it in recent State Budgets. Communities deserve answers.”
Mr Horstman said the consequences of further delays were well understood.
He said the Eucla community, emergency responders and the Shire of Dundas had advocated for the upgrade for more than a decade, highlighting its importance not only for local residents but also for the thousands of motorists travelling the Eyre Highway each year.
Mr Horstman calls on the State Government to immediately recommit funding, provide a clear construction timetable and deliver the long-overdue project.
“Regional Western Australians deserve the same access to safe emergency services as anyone living in Perth. The Government must stop making promises and start delivering.”
ENDS
