Regional aviation to take off under new federal government policy

On Tuesday, the government will unveil an issues paper, which is the first step in preparing the Regional Aviation Policy Statement.

Deputy Prime Minister Michael McCormack said it was important anyone who travelled on planes or through airports had the opportunity to contribute to the new policy.

"The issues paper will help all stakeholders assess the challenges, risks and opportunities for regional aviation operators and the communities in which they operate," Mr McCormack said.

"It will identify how community access and the delivery of goods and services can be better supported to improve transport connectivity.

"The benefits the aviation industry can offer regional communities are enormous and that's why we are committed to getting our Policy Statement right."

Mr McCormack said the policy would be one of many initiatives over the coming year, to help prepare Australia for the aviation opportunities that were already here or on the horizon.

"Think ridesharing apps in the sky, autonomous aircraft, biofuel, electric aircraft and so much more," he said.

"The days of the Jetsons are here."

The issues paper will focus on the roles of the different tiers of government and industry in regional aviation, including the provision of aviation services and airport infrastructure, as well as opportunities for better coordination in aviation programs operating in regional Australia.

The government is accepting submissions on the issues paper until Friday, April 17. Visit infrastructure.gov.au/aviation/regional/aviation-policy to access the issues paper.