Australians can continue to access half-price airfares this summer under the Liberal and Nationals Government’s cheap flights initiative, boosting airlines and tourism operators while accelerating Australia’s economic recovery.
With vaccination rates increasing and Australians regaining the freedoms they know and love, the Government is continuing to make it easier and cheaper for people to holiday in their own backyard.
The Tourism Aviation Network Support initiative is being extended until 28 February 2022 for both sales and travel, to ensure travellers impacted by lockdowns or border closures can access these tickets and visit key tourism regions over summer.
Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for Infrastructure, Transport and Regional Development Barnaby Joyce said tourism-dependent regions hit hardest by the pandemic will benefit from more Australians holidaying at home this Christmas.
“Australians have endured another tough year of lockdowns and restrictions on their lives,” the Deputy Prime Minister said.
“In line with the National Plan the Government expects states and territories to reduce barriers to travel as vaccination rates increase, paving the way for more Australians to travel domestically.
“Half-price airfares give Australians even greater incentive to take to the skies and enjoy a well-earned break these holidays.
“This will continue to boost our aviation and tourism sectors, protect the jobs and livelihoods these industries support and help restart our economy on the other side of the pandemic.”
Minister for Trade, Tourism and Investment Dan Tehan said that by taking a holiday this summer, Australians would be supporting local jobs and businesses in the tourism sector.
“Because Australians are rolling up their sleeves and getting vaccinated, Australia is re-opening to travel and Australians are booking holidays again,” Mr Tehan said.
“The best thing we can do for the tourism sector is get tourists back travelling, spending money and enjoying all the amazing holiday destinations Australia has to offer.”
The Government’s Tourism Aviation Network Support program launched in March this year, giving Australians access to 800,000 half-price airfares to 15 key tourism regions.
COVID-19 is continuing to have a significant impact on the aviation industry, with border closures and health safety measures limiting air travel for more than 18 months now. The Government has provided more than $5.3 billion in assistance to the aviation sector since the pandemic began.
