Media Releases
Thursday, 12th February 2009
The nation’s aviation industry achieved impressive growth last financial year, but airport operators and airlines are bracing for the turbulent economic skies ahead.
I have today released the latest official assessment of the Australian aviation industry: Avline 13. The publication reports that during 2007/08:
The fact growth in domestic passengers far outstripped the growth in international travellers could be a sign more Australians are choosing to holiday here at home – encouraging news for a local tourism industry experiencing a decline in overseas visitors.
While the current global economic downturn will no doubt adversely affect the local aviation industry over the next 12 to 18 months, we can be confident it enters this more challenging period from a position of relative strength.
However, over the longer-term the Government’s Bureau of Infrastructure, Transport and Regional Development (BITRE) still predicts passenger numbers will nearly double by 2025/26.
That’s why we need to start planning now if Australia is to continue reaping the economic and social benefits of aviation, an industry that generates billions in export income and supports the jobs of half a million Australians.
The Rudd Labor Government is developing the nation’s first ever Aviation White Paper to guide the industry growth over coming decades. As part of this consultative process, I recently released a Green Paper outlining a range of possible policy actions. Public submissions or comments are due by 27 February 2009.
A full copy of Avline 13 can be downloaded from: www.bitre.gov.au.
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Phone: 02 9564 3588
Parliament House Office
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Electorate Office
334a Marrickville Rd
Marrickville NSW 2204
Phone: 02 9564 3588
Parliament House Office
Parliament House
Canberra ACT 2600
Phone: 02 6277 7700
Phone: (02) 9564 3588
Fax: (02) 9564 1734
Email: A.Albanese.MP@aph.gov.au
We acknowledge the traditional custodians of the land on which our offices stand and we pay our respects to Elders past, present and emerging. We acknowledge the sorrow of the Stolen Generations and the impacts of colonisation on Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples. We also recognise the resilience, strength and pride of the Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander communities.
Authorised by Anthony Albanese. 334a Marrickville Rd, Marrickville NSW 2204.