A new bipartisan Friends of Aviation parliamentary group was launched at Parliament House in Canberra on Monday, aiming to provide a balanced forum for elected officials to engage with industry representatives.
Reflecting the Government’s stated commitment to delivering a “modern, fair and resilient aviation sector”, Transport Minister Catherine King, speaking at the event, said it is important for the Government to work with the Opposition to provide all Australians with a reliable and efficient aviation industry.
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“Aviation is not just another industry, it is a national connector. It unites our cities with our regions, our exporters with the world and our families with each other,” he stated.
“That’s why I believe engagement on aviation policy must be a bipartisan and collaborative effort. The challenges and opportunities facing this sector do not begin and end with an election cycle.”
Following the publication of the Aviation White Paper in August last year, the Government committed to improving the passenger experience, upskilling the aviation workforce, contributing to Australia’s net zero policy, improving connectivity with regional Australia and creating an efficient airline sector, among other key priority areas.
At the launch, the Minister highlighted some of the key contributions the Government has made to achieving these goals.
“I want to acknowledge the collective effort being made to help Rex emerge from voluntary administration,” he said.
“From the regional airports that continue to serve the airline and its passengers, to the dedicated public servants who have been working tirelessly for more than a year, ensuring regional passengers continue to have access to the critical services they depend on.”
Last week, following the announcement that Rex was sold to an American company, Air T, King said he “didn’t believe Rex would be flying today” if it weren’t for the financial aid the government provided to the regional airline.
Minister King also highlighted the Government’s commitment to introducing legislation for passengers and ensuring that the remedies they are entitled to in the event of flight delays and cancellations are efficiently provided.
“The Government is also committed to legislating greater rights and protections for airline passengers, so that when things go wrong, people know what remedies they are entitled to, these remedies are enforceable and public confidence in the sector continues to improve,” he said.
He said the move will aim to boost public confidence in the Australian aviation industry, which is often plagued by airline delays and management issues, something Western Sydney International Airport, due to open next year, is expected to curb by providing millions of Sydneysiders with a new travel hub.
“This work aims to restore confidence and ensure our aviation system reflects Australian values of fairness and respect,” he said.
The Minister also discussed raising disability standards for airlines and airports, saying the government is “committed to making the system more inclusive for everyone”.
Sustainable aviation fuel was also highlighted as an “important economic opportunity for the country”, and one that the government will invest in to expand the labor market, support regional raw materials suppliers and ensure Australia meets global commitments to reduce aviation emissions.
