Regional election candidates weigh in on Rex Airlines debate

About Regional - By Marion Williams

Only a few candidates for the House of Representatives in the electorates of Eden-Monaro, Gilmore and Riverina have said they support government action to keep the embattled air carrier Rex Airlines in the air.

On April 22 Region contacted six of the eight candidates in Eden-Monaro, seven of the eight Gilmore candidates, and 10 of the 13 candidates in the Riverina electorate. They were asked to comment before Anzac Day whether or not they supported the Labor Government’s commitment to buying Rex Airlines if another buyer could not be found…

The only other Riverina candidates to respond, saying they favoured continued government support for the airline, were independent candidate James Gooden and Christine Onley of the Libertarian Party.

Mr Gooden said as someone who lived in a regional area, he understood how vital regional air services like Rex were to communities across the Riverina.

“Whether it’s for health appointments, business, or staying connected to family, regular and affordable flights aren’t a luxury – they’re essential,” Mr Gooden said.

“I support keeping REX flying and ensuring that regional Australians have access to reliable, affordable well-serviced air routes. Whatever the ownership model, the focus must remain on maintaining strong connections between regional communities and the rest of the country,” he said.

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