I welcome the substantive appointment of Rob Sharp as the Chief Executive Officer of Airservices Australia.
Mr Sharp has been appointed as the CEO following a worldwide search undertaken by the Airservices Board to fill the role.
He brings over 25 years of senior executive experience in the aviation and transport sectors, having previously served as Secretary of Transport for New South Wales and CEO for both Virgin Australia Airlines and Tigerair Australia.
Mr Sharp's experience in these sectors spans leadership, strategy, commercial and operational roles - including advancing aviation technology development and innovation.
Building on his tenure as the interim CEO since last July, Mr Sharp's appointment will provide continuity to Airservices Australia as it navigates future opportunities and aviation growth.
Airservices Australia is responsible for managing 11 per cent of the world's airspace and delivering aviation rescue firefighting services at airports across the country. It plays a pivotal role in supporting Australia's aviation industry to grow.
Airservices Australia also supports consultation and local engagement with communities, airports and industry stakeholders around the country on operations, development, planning and aircraft noise matters.
While the previous Coalition Government encouraged the retirement of highly skilled air traffic controllers and hollowed out Airservices Australia, the Albanese Government continues to work to rebuild this important organisation.
I congratulate Mr Sharp on his appointment and look forward to working closely with him and Airservices Australia to ensure our aviation industry remains among the safest in the world.
