Requires the Transport Minister to make carriers’ obligations rules and an aviation industry code of conduct to provide for the protection of passengers in certain circumstances.
From the explanatory memo
The Bill is in response to the increasing level of consumer complaints lodged against airlines in Australia. The latest ACCC airline monitoring report confirms once again that the sector is not where it should be, as does that fact complaints to the ACCC concerning aviation have risen by nearly 200% since 2018.
The main thing the bill actually does is “require[…] the Minister to make rules (the carriers’ obligations rules) within 12 months of the commencement of the Act, but only after consultation with aviation industry stakeholders, consumer advocates and other relevant agencies”.
Normative Bases
The bill should be supported because it addresses the significant increase in consumer complaints against airlines, ensuring passengers receive fair treatment and adequate compensation during delays and cancellations. This is a critical step in protecting consumer rights and promoting equality in service delivery. By aligning Australian regulations with those of other jurisdictions like the EU, UK, and Canada, the bill ensures a consistent standard of passenger protection. Moreover, requiring airlines to seat children next to their parents or guardians without additional charges supports family welfare and equality in travel experiences.
Normative Bases
The bill should be opposed because it imposes additional regulatory burdens on airlines, potentially increasing operational costs, which could be passed on to consumers through higher ticket prices. This might reduce market competitiveness by discouraging new entrants and potentially driving smaller airlines out of the market, ultimately limiting consumer choice [Judgment]. Additionally, such regulations might stifle innovation within the industry by prioritizing compliance over efficiency and service improvements [Judgment].
2024-02-27
Senate
Before Senate
MCKENZIE, Sen Bridget; SMITH, Sen Dean
Unspecified
Consumer Protection, Transport, Discrimination / Human Rights