Australia's 48th federal parliament revived the Parliamentary Friends of Aviation group at a launch ceremony in Canberra on Monday.
Parliamentary friends groups are bi-partisan bodies organised to provide forums for members and senators to interact with industry representatives and discuss issues outside chambers.
Co-chaired by SA ALP Member for Sturt Clare Clutterham, who is a board member of the RFDS, and Nationals Senator Bridget McKenzie, the Parliamentary Friends of Aviation was formally launched with a speech by Minister for Infrastructure, Transport, Regional Development and Local Government Catherine King.
"Aviation, perhaps more than any other sector, reminds us that Australia, and the Australian public, are best served when we work together. Across parties, across industry, and across regions," King said.
"Aviation is not just another industry, it is a national connector. It binds our cities to our regions, our exporters to the world, and our families to one another.
"Because of our vast continent and the distances we travel, Australians rely on aviation perhaps more than many other people around the globe.
"That is why it is so critical that the aviation sector continues to build and maintain the trust of Australian travelers.
"And that is why I believe engagement on aviation policy must be a bi-partisan and collaborative endeavour. The challenges and opportunities facing this sector don’t begin and end with one election cycle.
"Whether it’s rebuilding confidence after the pandemic, ensuring a fair go for consumers, or protecting passengers with a disability – these goals are greater than party politics.
"And forums like this one – a bi-partisan Parliamentary Friends of Aviation group is one of the ways we can ensure Australia’s aviation policy remains fair, forward-looking, and globally competitive."
Industry representatives that attending the launch included Australian Airports Association CEO Simon Westaway, Regional Aviation Association of Australia CEO Rob Walker, Board of Airline Representatives of Australia CEO Stephen Pearce and Graeme Samuel, chair of Airlines of Australia and New Zealand.
AAA is also listed as a Key Stakeholder for the group.
Parliamentary Friends groups exist for the term of the sitting parliament. No Parliamentary Friends of Aviation group was established for the first term of the Albanese government.