The new MyJet headquarters at Bendigo Airport will house up to five aircraft and includes a new passenger lounge and administration offices.

MyJet is a corporate charter service.

Dr Napthine said the facility would help secure jobs and stimulate investment at Bendigo Airport.

“MyJet is a rapidly growing business and this development will allow the company to stable its aircraft in Bendigo rather than Essendon – keeping jobs in central Victoria," he said.

“Local pilots are now able to stay in the area to progress their training and pilot jet aircraft for a regional commercial operation."

MyJet Managing Director Chris Richards and Minister for Aviation Gordon Rich-Phillips joined Dr Napthine at Bendigo Airport to celebrate the opening on Friday morning.

Mr Napthine said MyJet’s $1.5-million project was the largest private investment in Bendigo Airport in more than 40 years and gave a major boost to the proposed redevelopment of Bendigo Airport.

“The Victorian Coalition Government has provided $5 million through our Regional Aviation Fund to assist the development of the new runway here in Bendigo,” Dr Napthine said.

Mr Rich-Phillips said the new facility and a proposed runway development would attract further investment in Bendigo’s aviation precinct.

“Bendigo Airport’s location in central Victoria means that it is the prime distribution point and nominated base for emergency services. It is also a vital link for further development of the region’s health, financial, manufacturing and tourism sectors,” Mr Rich-Phillips said.

“The Regional Aviation Fund is designed to support passenger services to regional towns and provides economic development opportunities in regional centres.

“This initiative will assist the aviation industry through investment in education and skills; promotion of investment; and trade and industry research.”