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Regional cities in NSW are calling for more government support for the aviation sector ahead of this year’s state budget.
In a pre-budget submission, Regional Cities New South Wales (RCNSW), an alliance of 15 regional centres across the state, has called more broadly for a boost in infrastructure spending, but is seeking extra support for aviation.
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Regional NSW has a total of 23 airports connecting it to the rest of Australia, 11 of which are located in RCNSW member cities.
“Regional airports play a critical role in their communities, the simple fact is most regional airports are under significant financial strain,” the group wrote in its submission.
“Many are faced with ageing infrastructure, ever increasing security cost pressures, high staffing costs, community service costs and a disproportionately high regulatory cost burden, especially over the last 12 months with several airlines entering voluntary administration or ceasing services.
“In addition, regional airfares have continued to significantly increase since 2019, which has added an additional deterrent to people using regional airports and further increasing the burden on airport operators.”
The group is asking for a Regional Airfare Zone Cap (RAZC) like the scheme extended in Western Australia this year to help ensure affordability, as well as the provision of funding “on an ongoing basis” for regional airport infrastructure.
“The importance of our regional aviation infrastructure was clear during last month’s flood emergency when roads and highways were cut, isolating many communities,” RCNSW chair Councillor Steve Krieg said.
“We have asked the Minns Government to increase its support for regional aviation and provide funding for regional aviation on an on-going basis. This will allow our Regional Cities to invest in and maintain their airports, aerodromes and airstrips.”
The Regional Aviation Association of Australia (RAAA) is backing the call, with CEO Rob Walker telling Australian Aviation the industry body is “very supportive” of RCNSW’s submission.
“The people of regional NSW are very aware of the vital importance of reliable and affordable aviation services and the support it provides to their communities,” he said.
“Forty-one per cent of domestic passengers each year travel through regional airports across Australia, and fifty-five per cent of aviation workers are based in regional and remote areas.
“The RAAA welcomes any additional investment in regional aviation. It is important that the aviation infrastructure is appropriately maintained and improved to ensure safe air travel to regional and remote communities.”
The federal government earlier this year invested $12 million in several regional NSW airports, including Moruya, Merimbula, Albury, Moree, Griffith and Mudgee, under the fourth round of the Regional Airports Program.
The office of NSW Transport Minister John Graham has been contacted for comment.
