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A delegation of NSW regional cities has met with the state government to call for more support of regional aviation.
Regional Cities NSW (RCNSW) members spoke with ministers in the Minns Government, including Transport Minister John Graham, seeking – among other measures – a cap on regional airfares similar to schemes in states such as Western Australia.
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Delegates also sought action from the state government on areas including housing and water security.
“Aviation is essential for our businesses, tourism and emergency services. Our airports face high maintenance and compliance costs despite lower passenger numbers. Mobility around the regions has slowed as airfares have risen over the past six years,” said RCNSW chair Councillor Steve Krieg.
“Accessible regional flights are critical not only to the prosperity of our regional cities, but to their survival.
“Regional cities are not asking for special treatment. We’re asking for fair investment to match our role in growing New South Wales and to help our cities to be the best they can be.”
The visit to the NSW Government comes after Regional Capitals Australia (RCA) earlier this month went to Canberra to meet with decision-makers following the release of terms of reference into Productivity Commission and Senate committee enquiries around regional aviation.
In a statement at the time, acting chair Councillor Kevin Mack said the collapse of Bonza and voluntary administration of Rex “exposed the vulnerability of regional aviation routes and heightened anxiety for everyone who depends on reliable air services”
“The current attention on regional aviation, including the welcome action taken during Rex’s voluntary administration period, shows the Federal Government understands the importance of regional air services in regional, rural and remote Australia,” he said.
“To complement the work to be undertaken during these inquiries, we want to partner with the Federal Government to ensure our regional airports are financially viable and sustainable, and Australians living beyond the state capitals are able to travel by air
“Regional capitals are the heart of regional Australia and are growing quickly. We need Federal Government investment to continue to operate and maintain infrastructure, like airports, that ensure our cities are liveable, connected and resilient.
“The vast majority of Australia’s regional airports face significant financial strain. Around 60 per cent operate at a loss and nearly 40 per cent expect ongoing deficits, due mainly to ageing infrastructure, high security costs and disproportionate regulations.”
The WA Government, which has had a fare cap scheme in place since 2022, has said the program will be extended beyond its scheduled expiry next year.
