I welcome today's final determination by the Australia Competition and Consumer Commission (ACCC) to approve the commercial partnership between Qantas and Emirates.
The Flying Kangaroo has a special place in the heart of all Australians and this is good news for Australian travellers and the Australian economy.
Millions of travellers stand to benefit from cheaper fares, reduced travel times and greater access to more destinations in the Middle East, Africa and Europe.
The partnership will also bring overseas tourists to more regional destinations in Australia and better access to international markets for regional Australians.
In just 10 years passenger numbers between the United Arab Emirates and Australia have tripled. The partnership between Qantas and Emirates will strengthen the growing relationship between the two countries.