SENATOR THE HON BRIDGET MCKENZIE
SHADOW MINISTER FOR INFRASTRUCTURE, TRANSPORT AND REGIONAL DEVELOPMENT
LEADER OF THE NATIONALS IN THE SENATE
7 September 2023
STATEMENT
ALBANESE’S PROTECTION RACKET TO BE EXAMINED
Today is a win for the Australian travelling public.
Labor failed at an attempt in the Senate to muzzle the newly established inquiry into the Albanese Government’s decision to block Qatar Airways’ proposal for additional air services to Australia.
Senator Bridget McKenzie said the Albanese Government’s attempt to curtail the Senate inquiry today is a shocking admission they have something to hide.
On Tuesday the ‘Select Committee on Commonwealth Bilateral Air Service Agreements’ passed through the Senate with the support of the crossbench.
This inquiry aims to investigate the Transport Minister, Catherine King’s decision and examine why the Government has chosen to restrict competition in the Australian airline industry.
“We have set this inquiry up so we can finally get the real answers about the Qatar Airways decision and restrictions on competition.
“We’re so glad it will go ahead on behalf of all Australian who have been impacted by high prices, cancellations and delays to flights.
This inquiry will commence immediately and report back to the Senate on October 9.
“The Albanese Government refuse to explain why it wants less competition in the aviation sector and cheaper airfares for Australian travellers,” Senator McKenzie said.
“I want to thank the Senate crossbench and independent Senators for agreeing to hold this inquiry.”