Note to government

You also need to understand that every regional aviation business is focussed 24/ 7 on trying to remain viable. These businesses carry no fat and it is not unusual to find owners and senior staff working regularly through weekends. These are the people that keep regional aviation flying no matter what day it is. They are no different to the many committed owners and staff of other Australian businesses.

This is not a complaint but a reminder that it will be the private sector that trades Australia out of this recession. Governments consume money rather than create wealth and it is vital that they understand clearly the support role they must play in partnership with the private sector. Regional aviation business owners are painfully aware that markets rise and fall and are doing everything possible to remain viable in the current downswing. These people are the bedrock of the industry and are operating at maximum effort.

Ministers, members of parliament and the departments that serve them need to be in contact like never before with what is happening across the industry. Regional aviation is vital to Australia’s domestic trade routes and should benefit from laws and taxes that encourage safe, customer focussed operations. Without the private sector creating wealth there is no money to redistribute to build civil society.

Politicians and journalists often speak of ‘cut through’ on particular issues, that is, the ability of a person, organisation or industry to communicate quickly and coherently with their audience. It is the aviation industry’s responsibility to speak to government with one voice on major aviation issues. Aviation in this country has been poor at achieving this goal and must look closely at a structure that will allow the industry to communicate forcefully and strategically on substantial issues. This has been attempted in the past with little success however we must not be daunted. No one company or person, no matter how powerful or informed, can represent Australian aviation thus it is incumbent on the industry to give government a way to interact with it that is timely and efficient.

There will always be a need for the specialist expertise of the many aviation bodies and associations. However, on policy issues of national aviation importance the industry must be able to interact with government, the media and the wider Australian community in ways that are easily comprehended and encourage fast outcomes. The concept is sure to be debated again when the industry gathers at Avalon.

The RAAA is holding its 10th Annual Convention at the Hyatt Coolum from 30 September-2 October 2009. This is the major annual event in regional aviation and not to be missed by all who are interested in the development of Australia aviation. Being the 10th year, all stops are being pulled out to provide the best possible experience for vendors and participants. Convention topics will cover many current and future possibilities for the regional aviation industry. Topics will be finalised and advertised soon. In addition, there will be more options for partners attending the Convention. 2009 will rush by, so please mark the RAAA Convention in your diary now.