Palaszczuk Government calls on the federal government to back Virgin Airlines

The Palaszczuk Government has today called upon the federal government and other states to support Virgin Airlines to continue as Australia’s second national carrier.

Minister for State Development Cameron Dick said it was imperative Australia has two airlines, to support tourism, jobs and regional investment.

“Queensland has given Australia both our national airlines – we won’t let them go, or let thousands of families watch their jobs go, without a fight,” Mr Dick said.

“The Queensland Government is ready to do its bit to support, offering $200 million towards a national support package to help get Virgin get back in the skies.

“But we can’t do it alone, and nor should we, because all parts of Australia benefit from two national airlines.

“We need the Australian Government to lead a national effort to keep our two great airlines flying.

“We also want to keep the air fair. We know that it can cost up to 25 per cent more to fly on single carrier routes, and we want to avoid that at all costs, when we emerge from this crisis."

Mr Dick said Queensland Government support was conditional on federal government backing, debt restructuring, shareholders and bond holders doing their bit, headquarters remaining in Brisbane and ongoing regional flights.

“We know other investors are looking at Virgin too," he said.

“Our message to potential investors is that we are prepared to put money on the line to keep a national carrier based in Queensland.”

ENDS

Media contact: Lesley Major 0419 288 284