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The Federal Government has ordered airports around the country to review their security after last week’s incident at Avalon.
Home Affairs Minister Tony Burke on Sunday said he had written to a number of airports directing them to conduct safety assessments after a 17-year-old allegedly breached the security fence at Avalon armed with a shotgun and attempted to board a Jetstar flight on Thursday.
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“On Friday, I directed my department to write to Avalon and all similar airports to inform them that they will be required to conduct a risk assessment to determine what security upgrades are necessary to prevent incidents like this one,” said Minister Burke.
“The department is also working on measures (including use of directive powers) which would require airports to improve detection and monitoring of any intrusion into their grounds.
“Passenger safety is always our priority and we are using all tools at our disposal to ensure an incident like this does not happen again.”
The teenager allegedly involved in the incident last week appeared before the Children’s Court on Friday charged with a range of offences, which included possession of a firearm, carrying out a bomb hoax, endangering the safety of an aircraft, and unlawfully taking control of an aircraft.
The youth allegedly threatened passengers and crew, as well as planting a fake homemade bomb. He will face court again on 21 March, having been remanded into custody.
In a statement, Avalon Airport CEO Ari Suss said the airport “remains fully operational, with enhanced security measures in place”.
“Safety and security has always been our top priority,” he said.
“Having welcomed more than 15 million passengers through the airport, we are committed to maintaining the highest security standards and working closely with authorities to continually enhance airport operations.
“We also welcome and fully support any major reviews into airport security and operations that strengthen safety for all travellers, at all airports.”
Simon Westaway, CEO of the Australian Airports Association (AAA), said in a statement that the peak body has been closely monitoring the situation, and that “safety and security remains paramount at Australian airports”.
“Security-controlled airports meet strict requirements as directed by the Department of Home Affairs and individual security plans are approved under rigorous assessment processes, including airport perimeters,” he said.
“The AAA is awaiting further detail on the investigations underway by Victoria Police and the Department of Home Affairs. We stand ready to work with our members and the Federal Government in response.
“It should be noted that last Thursday’s incident was an extremely rare event and Australia’s aviation industry is incredibly safe.”
The Department of Home Affairs has been contacted for comment.
