The Minns Government is continuing work to support Western NSW communities with the announcement today the $2 million subsidy scheme for commercial flights in Western NSW will continue at least until November 2025.
The agreement will allow for the continuation of subsidies on flights from Dubbo to Bourke, Walgett and Lightning Ridge operated by Air Link and from Sydney to Cobar operated by FlyPelican.
The NSW Government and the Far North-West Joint Organisation (FNWJO) subsidy agreement will provide residents, workers and industry in Western NSW with continued access to air services helping to reduce travel times in rural and remote NSW.
Subsidised air travel is vital for the delivery of essential services such as health, childcare, justice, family and community services, with doctors, specialists, nurses and social workers among the frequent fliers travelling to and from Western NSW.
As part of the Government’s continued commitment to Western NSW, work is also underway to deliver the Regional Development Trust $15 million Airstrips Improvement Package.
The package will upgrade rural and remote airstrips to improve access for emergency services, health professionals and other essential services in some of the most remote parts of the state.
An audit of remote and rural airstrips across 19 local government areas and the unincorporated area in Western NSW is underway to prioritise those most in need of upgrades.
Work on the airstrips and related infrastructure is expected to start before the end of the year.
Minister for Agriculture, Regional NSW and Western NSW, Tara Moriarty said:
“For Sydneysiders, air travel is an easily accessible convenience but for people living in Western NSW it is not so easy.
“This funding will help commercial operators offer a two-way service connecting regional NSW with essential workers, trades, and services that they often depend on.
Independent member for Barwon, Roy Butler said:
“Western Air Services flights provide people in remote areas with much-needed access to health services, social engagements, and major economic benefits to our primary industries.
“For many people in my electorate these flights are not a luxury but an absolute necessity, especially given the vast distances people need to cover in the west of the state.
“I want to thank the Minister for her understanding of the importance of this issue when I raised it with her, and for her following through to ensure the continuation of these vital air services.”
Retiring Far North-West Joint Organisation Chairman, Councillor Barry Hollman said:
“This is a very exciting announcement, and I thank the NSW Government and particularly the Minister for Western NSW, the Hon Tara Moriarty, MLC for her responsiveness.
“Just as commuters on the recently opened Metro in Sydney described the new train service as ‘transformational’ and ‘life changing’, the same can be said about the provision of these air services to the remote far North West area of the State.
“The Government has certainly gone the extra mile to assist our remote communities.
Chief Executive Officer, Fly Pelican, Marty Hawley said:
“Today we welcome this announcement from the NSW Government and we look forward to continuing to service these critical flights for the far North West region and its communities.
“Flight services to our remote regions are critical, and we are very pleased with today’s announcement to ensure the far North West region remains connected.”
General Manager, Air Link Airlines, Ron O’Brien said:
“This funding plays a crucial role in maintaining reliable air services that are lifelines for the communities of Bourke, Walgett, and Lightning Ridge.
“Regional air services help to bridge distances and improve quality of life for residents in regional NSW by facilitating economic development and enhanced connectivity for businesses and residents alike.