iscover
The Government has released an Aviation Green Paper in an effort to solicit further feedback ahead of its White Paper next year.
The Green Paper, weighing in at more than 200 pages, covers areas including the transition to net zero, consumer protections, competition and aviation affordability. It is open for comment until 30 November.
According to Transport Minister Catherine King, the Green Paper is an important step before next year’s White Paper sets the policy direction for the aviation sector to 2050.
“The Government is seeking outcomes that deliver a more competitive aviation sector, while at the same time securing Australian jobs. We are also looking at stronger consumer protections, improvements to complaint handling processes and improve accessibility for consumers living with disability,” she said.
“Through this process, we are also seeking to understand whether options pursued in other jurisdictions – such as a Customer Rights Charter or a stronger ombudsman model – would deliver benefits to Australia’s aviation sector.
“We want an aviation sector that maintains Australia’s world-leading safety and security standards and provides secure jobs now and into the future, a sector needs to be reliable, competitive and affordable, supported by a robust consumer rights framework.”
The government earlier this year set the terms of reference for the upcoming White Paper, which will outline four main outcomes regarding safety, competitiveness, sustainability and efficiency.
It will see the government address a number of concerns such as the contribution the aviation industry makes in reaching the nation’s goal of net zero carbon emissions, the regeneration of the aviation sector post-COVID-19, and the introduction of new technologies, such as ones that affect safety.
“A safe, efficient, sustainable and competitive aviation sector is critical to the economy and the standard of living of all Australians,” said Minister King in a February media release.
“Aviation connects Australians with the world and communities to each other. It brings essential imports to our country and connects high-value exports with markets overseas. It allows us to visit family and friends interstate and it provides a vital link to regions and remote Australia.
“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 full list of themes and outcomes can be found here.
