The Federal Government is inviting submissions on a new White Paper focusing on Australia’s aviation industry.
The Aviation White Paper is a step towards long term policy directions for growth and innovation for the sector.
A safe, efficient, sustainable and competitive aviation industry is critical to the economy and the standard of living of all Australians.
Aviation connects Australians with the world and communities to each other. It brings essential imports to the country and connects high-value exports with markets overseas. It allows Australians to visit family and friends interstate and it provides a vital link to regions and remote parts of the country.
After the uncertainty of the pandemic, and a lack of planning for the future under the previous government, the Aviation White Paper will provide a new chance to chart the opportunities for the future.
The terms of reference outline several issues for the White Paper to examine, including:
- Aviation’s role in economic development, trade and the visitor economy – general, domestic, regional and international aviation
- The role of airlines and airports in supporting regional economies
- Appropriate consumer protections and access to services
- How to maximise the aviation sector’s contribution to achieving net zero carbon emissions, including through sustainable aviation fuel and emerging technologies
- How to support and regenerate Australia’s general aviation sector
- Airport development planning processes and consultation mechanisms that consider the impact and changing nature of aircraft noise and related expectations on the role of noise sharing and noise mitigation
The peak body representing the airport sector, the Australian Airports Association (AAA), has welcomed the release of the White Paper Terms of Reference.
AAA Chief Executive, James Goodwin, said this was the right time to review the aviation policy and regulatory settings as the sector starts to recover from the impacts of the pandemic.
“It is hoped the Aviation White Paper will bring some long-term certainty to the sector and provides an opportunity to get the right settings in place for the decades ahead,” Mr Goodwin said.
“It is vital the White Paper also reviews government settings and government agencies which impact or control aviation infrastructure, planning, airspace management and safety.
“The government has listened to advocacy from airports to shape the terms of reference and it is encouraging to see it will avoid duplication of other reviews already planned or underway.
“The White Paper must explore the differing challenges facing major, large, regional and remote airports and aerodromes.”
Mr Goodwin said it has been over a decade since the last significant aviation policy statement by the Australian Government in 2009.
Individuals and organisations are able to make a submission on any aspect of the terms of reference before 10 March 2023.
Further public consultations will occur on the Green Paper, to be released further into 2023.
For the full terms of reference, further information on the Aviation White Paper, or to make a submission, visit here.
