Fifty leaders of local government areas affected by the collapse of Rex Airlines have taken part in an online roundtable with Federal Minister for Local Government, Kristy McBain.
The briefing was secured following the Australian Local Government Association’s (ALGA) call for action by the Australian Government to ensure regional communities remain connected and accessible following the airline’s collapse.
“The forum was an opportunity for us to voice our concerns about the loss of regional aviation services, and the support we need to facilitate and continue regular flights into our communities,” said ALGA President and City of Sydney Councillor, Linda Scott.
“About 200 councils run and operate airports and aerodromes across Australia, and we will continue to work closely with the Government to protect and support our rural and regional communities at risk,” she said.
Minister McBain said it had been “a distressing week” for many communities following Rex Airlines’ decision to enter voluntary administration.
“We’re working with the administrator to better understand the position of Rex, and have not ruled anything out in terms of Commonwealth assistance.”
“I held a roundtable with councils from across Australia, including Bega Valley Shire Council, to keep them up to date and to reaffirm our commitment to a strong regional aviation sector,” the Minister said.
