Numerous media outlets are reporting Avalon Airport located 55 kilometres west of Melbourne has been given government approval to upgrade facilities and allow the airport to be a destination for international airlines.
The federal government announced on 12 October that it would amend Avalon's lease to allow a new international terminal to be built. A terminal of up to 10,000 square metres and up to 15 million dollars of value could be constructed without the need for further planning approval.
Linfox, the current lease holders, have advised that discussions were already underway with potential airlines, with the focus being on Asia. Jetstar is currently the only airline operating at Avalon.
Avalon Airport currently employs around 1000 people. International operations would require the provision of quarantine, customs and federal police services as well as other services.
http://afr.com/p/national/avalon_airport_to_become_international_3ops8yfA8t1ri3siBjAleL for Australian Financial Review article.