The Qatari flag carrier, which has been angling to increase its presence in Australia but was last year rebuffed by the federal government, could be interested in buying up to 20 per cent of Virgin from current owner Bain Capital.

Starting 10 September, Qantas will fly three 737-800 services per week from Brisbane to Port Vila, with the capacity for up to five based on demand, while Jetstar will begin up to four weekly flights from Sydney to Port Vila on 12 December.

In an email seen by The Guardian, the Independent Parliamentary Expenses Authority (IPEA) noted that, while technically eligible to claim remediation for taxpayer-funded bookings under the Flying Kangaroo’s deal with the ACCC, affected politicos and their staff should pass up the money.

According to an ASX filing, Quickstep Holdings will reduce headcount in its direct production and operational support units by 20 per cent each. The aerospace composite business is also expected to reduce staff within its corporate support teams by 35 per cent.