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A new bipartisan Parliamentary Friends of Aviation 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 deliver a “modern, fair, and resilient aviation sector”, Transport Minister Catherine King, speaking at the event, said it was important for the government to work with the opposition to provide all Australians with a reliable, efficient aviation industry.
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“Aviation is not just another industry, it is a national connector. It binds our cities to our regions, our exporters to the world, and our families to one another,” she said.
“That is why I believe engagement on aviation policy must be a bipartisan and collaborative endeavour. The challenges and opportunities facing this sector don’t begin and end with one election cycle.”
Following the release of the Aviation White Paper in August last year, the government pledged to improve passenger experience, upskill the aviation workforce, contribute to Australia’s net zero policy, improve connection to regional Australia, and create an efficient airline sector, among other key priority areas.
At the launch, the minister noted some of the key contributions that the government has made towards these goals.
“I want to acknowledge the collective effort that is going into helping Rex emerge from voluntary administration,” she said.
“From the regional airports continuing to serve the airline and its passengers, to the dedicated public servants who have been working tirelessly for over a year, ensuring regional passengers continue to have access to the critical services they rely on.”
Last week, following the announcement that Rex was sold to a US firm, Air T, King said she “didn’t think Rex would be flying today” if it weren’t for the financial aid the government supplied to the regional airline.
Minister King also highlighted the government’s commitment to introducing legislation for passengers and ensuring 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 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,” she said.
She said this move will aim to increase public confidence in the Australian aviation industry, one that is often riddled with delays and airline management issues – something Western Sydney International Airport, opening next year, will hopefully curb by giving millions of Sydneysiders a brand new hub of travel.
“This work is about restoring confidence and trust, and ensuring our aviation system reflects Australian values of fairness and respect,” she said.
The minister also discussed increasing disability standards for airlines and airports, saying the government is “committed to making the system more inclusive for all”.
Sustainable aviation fuel was also highlighted as being a “significant economic opportunity for the country”, and one that the government will invest in to expand the job market, support regional feedstock providers, and ensure Australia is on target with global commitments to lowering aviation emissions.
