Sunraysia residents are being encouraged to share their stories on the high cost of air travel as a key inquiry gets underway.
The Productivity Commission is conducting a public inquiry into the Determinants of Regional Airfares, saying “It is critical to the inquiry that we hear from communities, businesses, governments and individuals in regional areas across the country.”
As Shadow Minister for Regional Development, Member for Mallee, Dr Webster said she has asked the Commission to visit Mildura to hear first-hand the impact of high airfares on the region’s tourism and business development.
A regular Mildura airport traveller herself, Dr Webster noted that while economy fares from Mildura to Melbourne or Sydney start at less than $200, those prices increase dramatically if a trip is needed at short notice, and stacks up if trying to take the family elsewhere in Australia.
Often, the second leg from a capital city to elsewhere in Australia costs less than travelling out of Mildura.
The inquiry is due to report to the Albanese Labor Government by 27 April 2027.
The next federal election is due in 2027/28.
To make a submission go to https://www.pc.gov.au/inquiries-and-research/regional-airfares/
