Going, going, almost gone – book your half-price holiday now

Australian aviation is once again booming thanks to more than $3.8 billion of industry support invested by the Federal Government since the COVID-19 pandemic began, with the tourism industry's bounce-back well underway.

Last month, the Australian Government announced a $1.2 billion tourism support package which included 800,000 half-price airfares, helping a record number of Australians enjoy a holiday at home this year.

More than 600,000 of those half-price flights have been snapped up in just three weeks, with Australians flocking to local tourist destinations across the country.

Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for Infrastructure, Transport and Regional Development said planes in the air meant jobs on the ground.

“Australians are taking trips in large numbers with airlines reporting sales dwarfing previous records – our aviation industry is in a remarkable position compared to where it was just one year ago,” the Deputy Prime Minister said.

“The proof is there in the sky today, as we see Qantas, Virgin, Rex and so many other smaller airlines flying proudly, carrying Australians to their dream holidays.

“The benefit isn't just for those Australians embarking on their holiday at home, it's also a win for jobs in our aviation industry, local small businesses who are now doing a roaring trade and for our tourism operators who have come back to life as a result of these half-price flights.”

Minister for Trade, Tourism and Investment Dan Tehan said the Federal Government was making the right investments at the right time to help Australia's economic recovery.

“More than seventy-five per cent of our half-priced tickets have been sold and the rest will go like hot cakes,” Mr Tehan said.

“My message to Australians is take advantage of this opportunity to book a cheap holiday through your travel agent and when you're on holiday spend on a tourist activity and a night out to support tourism jobs and business.

“For every dollar spent on a flight ten more will be spent on the ground and from speaking to so many people in the tourism industry, I know this program has made a difference.

“The tourism industry is central to our National Economic Recovery Plan and, as we have done right throughout the pandemic, we will continue to make the necessary investments to support jobs across Australia.”

As we have done with every measure introduced throughout the pandemic, the Federal Government will continue to review this program, including routes and ticket numbers.