The Australian Local Government Association (ALGA) has welcomed the federal government’s lifeline for Rex Airlines to maintain regional airline services and prevent its collapse.
The government has announced it is prepared to acquire the airline, which entered voluntary administration in 2024, in the absence of any other buyers.
ALGA President, Mayor Matt Burnett, thanked the government for their strong support to safeguard regional aviation services and protect local economies for regional and remote communities.
“These communities rely on consistent and reliable airline services to put food on tables, connect friends and family and ensure access to vital healthcare services,” Mayor Burnett said.
“In August last year, we called for strong and decisive action by the government to ensure regional communities remain connected and accessible in the wake of the airline entering administration.
“We also jointly convened a crisis meeting with impacted local governments from regional areas and Federal Minister for Local Government, Kristy McBain.
“Many of our councils also play a crucial role in owning and operating airports and aerodromes that function as important gateways to our local areas and regions.
“We look forward to continuing to work with the government and councils to ensure there’s continued support for rural and regional communities as any disruption to airline access would be devastating.”
