The Opposition has called on the State Government to provide an urgent update on the status of
Rex Airlines and its vital service it provides to regional WA communities.
Opposition Leader and Shadow Transport Minister Shane Love MLA said communities were
anxious for information, noting that Rex is the sole carrier connecting Albany, Carnarvon and
Esperance to Perth.
“Rex Airlines’ suspension on the Australian Stock Exchange and looming announcements have
left regional communities nervous about the future of their only airline,” Mr Love said.
“The Transport Minister must act immediately to reassure these communities that a plan is in
place to maintain flight services and ensure that no regional community is worse off.”
Mr Love highlighted the critical reliance of regional passengers on Rex Airlines and urged the
Government to work closely with the airline on a path forward.
“Air travel is essential for many in regional WA, providing a lifeline for business, healthcare, and
social connectivity. Any reduction or removal of this service would devastate healthcare access,
tourism and regional economies.
“The airline was key in maintaining key travel routes nationally during COVID-19. If they are facing
operational challenges, it is incumbent on the State and Federal Government’s to work closely
with them to find a solution where possible.”
Mr Love said Rex Airlines had a vital role to play in WA’s healthcare system, facilitating transport
for doctors and other health specialists to the regions, and connecting regional patients to Perth
for non-emergency medical appointments.
“Without this service, residents will miss appointments they’ve waited weeks or months for, and
specialists may have to cancel their visits, further disadvantaging regional residents.
“In a State as rich as WA, our health system should not be reliant upon a private airline to function,
and yet it does. Rex has been doing the heavy lifting in regional health for a number of years, and
the outcomes for patients must be prioritised in the State Government’s discussions with the
airline.
“Many WA residents will never need to consider a 10-hour drive to give birth safely, access cancer
treatment, or attend specialist and allied health appointments. Your health outcomes should not be
compromised simply be where you live in our great State.”
Mr Love said the ongoing uncertainty was causing concern in many communities.
“People have flights booked well in advance and are now left waiting for clarity from the State
Government.
“In Carnarvon, the furthest of the three communities where Rex provides the only daily service,
residents will face a long and expensive 1,700 kilometre round-trip to Perth to access essential
services, business, or family visits, if a solution is not found.”
