The Federal Government today released details and terms of reference for the new aviation white paper.
The white paper, which is expected to cost taxpayers $7 million, will be preceded by a green paper in the middle of this year and released in full in the first half of 2024.
According to the government, the white paper, which was part of the ALP's policy taken to the last Federal Election, will given the aviation industry direction for growth and innovation.
"A safe, efficient, sustainable and competitive aviation sector is critical to the economy and the standard of living of all Australians," said Minister for Infrastructure, Transport, Regional Development and Local Government Catherine King.
"Aviation connects Australians with the world and communities to each other. It brings essential imports to our country and connects high-value exports with markets overseas.
"It allows us to visit family and friends interstate and it provides a vital link to regions and remote Australia.
"After the uncertainty of the pandemic, and a lack of planning for the future under the previous government, the Aviation White Paper will provide a new chance to chart the opportunities for the future."
The terms of reference as announced today are:
- aviation’s role in economic development, trade and the visitor economy – general, domestic, regional and international aviation
- how to maximise the aviation sector’s contribution to achieving net zero carbon emissions including through sustainable aviation fuel and emerging technologies
- changing aviation technologies and ways to position our policies, regulations and systems to encourage uptake and manufacturing of new, more efficient, transport technologies
- airport development planning processes and consultation mechanisms that consider the impact and changing nature of aircraft noise and related expectations on the role of noise sharing and noise mitigation
- how to support and regenerate Australia’s general aviation sector
- future industry workforce skills and training requirements
- appropriate consumer protections and access to services
- maintaining fit-for-purpose aviation safety, air navigation and aviation security systems and service delivery agencies
- the role of airlines and airports in supporting regional economies
- other significant issues raised during the consultation process.
The Department of Infrastructure, Transport, Regional Development, Communication and the Arts has stated that the white paper, once complete, will "clearly articulate the Commonwealth Government’s policies on desired aviation outcomes in relation to safety, competitiveness, sustainability and efficiency to ensure the sector is appropriately positioned to deliver aviation services for the Australian public out to 2050."
Further details are on the Department's website. Submissions to the white paper terms of reference close on 10 March 2023 and can be lodged via e-mail to the Department at aviationwhitepaper@infrastructure.gov.au.