Regional leaders join united push to secure regional airports future

BUSINESS NSW and several regional Mayors have used Port Macquarie Airport to launch their push to secure the future of regional aviation.

They gathered on Tuesday 2 June to launch the policy paper “Keeping Regional NSW Connected: The Future of Our Airports”.

Since the voluntary administration and restructuring of Rex Airlines, Mid North Coast councils have called for a strengthening of regional airport infrastructure, improving air service reliability, supporting workforce development and positioning regional NSW to capitalise on emerging opportunities in aviation.

The launch brought together key aviation, business and local government leaders, including Australian Airports Association Chief Executive Officer Simon Westaway, Port Macquarie Hastings General Manager Robert Fish, Coffs Harbour Airport CEO Craig Shaw, City of Coffs Harbour Mayor Nikki Williams, Kempsey Shire Mayor Kinne Ring and Bellingen Shire Mayor Steve Allen.

Port Macquarie-Hastings Mayor Adam Roberts did not attend.

Business NSW Regional Director for Mid North Coast Rod Barnaby, said regional airports were far more than transport assets.

“Regional airports are critical economic infrastructure that support business growth, tourism, freight, emergency services, healthcare access and workforce mobility,” he said.

“Yet many regional airports are facing significant challenges, including ageing infrastructure, rising operating costs, workforce shortages, airline market concentration and uncertainty around future investment.

“Without action, regional communities risk losing connectivity that underpins economic growth, investment and livability.”

Policy road map

Mr Barnaby said the policy paper provides a practical roadmap for governments and industry to work together to strengthen the regional aviation network.

It includes eight key recommendations:

• Develop a 10-Year NSW Regional Aviation Strategy to guide planning, investment and coordination across the state’s aviation network.
• Establish a dedicated NSW Regional Aviation Infrastructure Fund to provide long-term investment certainty for airport upgrades and modernisation.
• Secure reliable and affordable air services through stronger route continuity measures, improved slot access and increased competition.
• Position Western Sydney International Airport as a genuine regional gateway with guaranteed regional access and strong transport connections.
• Build a skilled regional aviation workforce through targeted training pathways, partnerships and workforce development initiatives.
• Accelerate the transition to clean aviation by supporting sustainable aviation fuel, hydrogen and electric aircraft infrastructure.
• Improve data transparency and accountability through a Regional Aviation Performance Dashboard.
• Encourage public-private partnerships and airport precinct development to unlock investment, create jobs and diversify airport revenue streams.

Australian Airports Association Chief Executive Officer Simon Westaway welcomed the focus on long-term planning and investment.

“Regional airports play an essential role in connecting communities, supporting local economies and

enabling critical services,” he said.

“Ensuring these assets remain sustainable and future-ready is vital for regional Australia.”

Rex bailout

Following Rex Airlines going into voluntary administration last year, financial assistance has been provided to Mid North Coast councils.

Delivered through the Federal Government’s Regional and Remote Airport Support Program, Port Macquarie-Hastings Council received a $119,004 grant and Coffs Harbour Airport was awarded $222,177.

In total, 34 regional and remote airports have received $4.8 million through the program.

These relief payments will help airports like Port Macquarie, which are largely run by local councils, to manage debts linked to the voluntary administration of Rex Airlines, and maintain aviation services for their communities.

American company Air T completed its acquisition of Rex Airlines in late 2025.

By Sue STEPHENSON