- Regional Airfare Zone Cap scheme receives $4 million boost
- Funding injection will see program extended to the middle of 2026
- More than 420,000 capped airfares have now been flown under the scheme
The Cook Labor Government has announced a funding injection for the landmark Regional Airfare Zone Cap (RAZC) scheme, with a further $4 million to be invested.
The funding boost will see the program extended by a further six months until the middle of 2026.
A review of the scheme and renegotiation of terms will commence in the middle of this year, with the extension until the middle of 2026 ensuring there will be no gap in the service while this occurs.
Since launching in July 2022, the RAZC scheme has been embraced by regional residents, significantly reducing the cost of return flights to Perth for personal reasons, including for specialist appointments and family visits.
More than 420,000 capped airfares have been flown since the scheme began, highlighting the significant impact it is having for regional communities.
Under the scheme, airfares are capped at a maximum cost of either $199 or $299 one-way when booked as a return fare for personal travel - significantly reducing the cost of airfares.
As stated by Transport Minister Rita Saffioti:
"This scheme is the first of its kind in the country, and our Government has been proud to support regional families with this critical cost-of-living initiative.
"This program has saved regional families thousands of dollars during challenging cost-of-living conditions and allowed regional residents to travel to Perth for important family occasions and appointments without the added stress or often prohibitive airfares.
"This additional investment will see the scheme extended until the middle of 2026 and ensure there is no gap in service delivery while we review and renegotiate terms with the airlines."
