Friday, 9 August 2024
Member for Cootamundra Steph Cooke has used a speech to the NSW Parliament this week to highlight the urgent need to save Rex Airlines and support regional air services.
"The recent announcement that Rex Airlines has entered voluntary administration is a stark reminder of the precarious position of regional airlines in the modern aviation landscape. Since its formation in August 2002, Rex has connected rural, remote, and regional areas to major cities, providing crucial links beyond mere convenience," Ms Cooke said.
"For people in rural Australia, like those in the Cootamundra electorate, the potential loss of Rex Airlines is far more than just another business casualty. It poses significant risks to their access to essential services and convenient transport options."
Ms Cooke said the importance of regional air services cannot be overstated, particularly given the reliance of rural communities on medical specialists who fly in and out.
“Without stable and reliable regional air services, medical specialists can’t access our region consistently, and this has significant implications; patients can't access timely, consistent care, worsening their health and adding stress to their families. Reliable flights ensure medical appointments are kept, treatments stay on schedule, and health outcomes improve, “Ms Cooke said.
"The air routes to Narrandera and Wagga Wagga are particularly vital for the constituents of the Cootamundra electorate. Beyond healthcare, these airports are critical gateways for residents to access education, business opportunities, and personal travel. The Narrandera-Leeton Airport and the Wagga Wagga Airport are vital regional hubs, providing direct links to Sydney and other major cities.
Ms Cooke said that the NSW and Australian Governments must take decisive action to ensure a sustainable future for smaller carriers. Financial aid, competition and regulatory reforms, and strategic partnerships should be part of a comprehensive strategy to secure the survival of regional air carriers.
“Saving Rex Airlines is not just about keeping a company; it is about preserving a vital lifeline for the many communities that depend on it," Ms Cooke said.
Rex and its subsidiaries employ around 2,000 staff, many of them in the Riverina and Central West. The company has more than 100 aircraft in its fleet, servicing 56 destinations across Australia.
A full transcript of the Private Members Statement to the NSW Parliament on Wednesday 7 August 2024 can be found here: Legislative Assembly Hansard - 07 August 2024 - Proof (nsw.gov.au)