Australia’s major international gateways have called on the Federal Government to urgently invest in a modern border.
Representatives from Sydney, Brisbane and Melbourne airports have united with the Tourism & Transport Forum (TTF) and Australian Airports Association (AAA) to make the call for action.
It comes as research shows that 84 per cent of Australians believe the country should have a globally competitive international border in place before the 2032 Brisbane Olympic and Paralympic Games.
The recent consumer research commissioned by TTF also highlights that traveller experiences at international borders play an important role in shaping perceptions of destinations.
Some 31 per cent of Australians reported that a negative experience when entering a country’s border made their overall impression of that country worse, showing the reputational risk if the nation fails to deliver a seamless and welcoming arrival experience.
“A modern and efficient border is essential for both travellers and the Australian economy,” said Margy Osmond, Tourism & Transport Forum CEO.
“Every hour saved at the border translates into real economic activity, supporting local businesses, tourism operators and the broader visitor economy.”
To fund the modernisation of Australia’s border systems, the industry is calling on the Government to maintain the Passenger Movement Charge at its current rate ($70) but direct all future growth-related revenue toward the Border Modernisation program.
With forecasts indicating the charge will generate more than $380 million in additional revenue by 2030, the tourism leaders say this provides a clear opportunity to fund technology upgrades, digital solutions and frontline resources that will help future-proof Australia’s border.
“With the Brisbane 2032 Olympic and Paralympic Games approaching, we have an opportunity to showcase Australia at its best. It is imperative the Government ringfences growth from the Passenger Movement Charge to fund the border, protect Brand Australia and keep us competitive on the global stage,” added Ms Osmond.
“Modernising Australia’s border is critical to maintaining our global competitiveness, particularly as we prepare for significant growth in international travel,” commented Scott Charlton, Sydney Airport CEO.
“Outdated, paper-based processes risk holding Australia back compared to more advanced global hubs.
“By contrast, a streamlined digital border system would support passenger growth, improve the traveller experience, and allow us to invest more efficiently in the infrastructure that adds value.
“This is a critical productivity reform. Acting now will ensure Australia remains competitive, supports the sustainable growth of our airports, and avoids unnecessary costs being passed on to travellers.”
# Hundreds of TWU aviation workers will be holding a day of protest today at airports across the country, centred around ground handler Swissport.
The union claims Swissport has a history of alarming safety issues impacting both on workers and the public.
Safety blitzes this month revealed alleged issues with damaged ground equipment, unsafe staffing levels, heat-based injuries and psychosocial hazards from intrusive worker surveillance.
Workers are calling on airlines and airports to properly fund fair standards in aviation at companies like Swissport and return good jobs to the sector.
