VIRGIN ADMINISTRATORS CALL FOR URGENT HELP

VIRGIN ADMINISTRATORS CALL FOR URGENT HELP
  Virgin Australia’s independent administrators have called on the Morrison Government to immediately indicate its ongoing commitment to supporting Australia’s aviation sector.

In a letter sent to the Prime Minister and senior ministers yesterday, the independent administrators made clear that unless the Morrison Government provides support, the ability of the two shortlisted bidders to submit proposals is in serious jeopardy.

In order to ensure that the airline emerges from administration, the administrators’ letter calls for the extension of Government assistance, including JobKeeper, to prevent mass redundancies and business failure.

In addition, the administrators call on the Morrison Government to support a competitive air market, protect airport landing slots, continue the domestic network subsidy and provide additional support during the initial acquisition phase.

With final proposals due on the 22^nd of June, this letter makes clear that Australia’s second major airline is in serious jeopardy because of the inaction of the Morrison Government. 

When it comes to Virgin Australia, Labor’s priorities have always been protecting workers and protecting routes.

Australia’s economy is reliant on having two major airlines. Not only do our airlines support hundreds of thousands of Australian jobs, but the competition they provide ensures affordable services regularly reach all Australians.

The Prime Minister has repeatedly made clear, including in Question Time today, the importance of Australia having two strong airlines – he now needs to act immediately to ensure the survival Australia’s second airline.

Labor has spent months calling on the Morrison Government to assist Virgin and to take an active role in helping them through voluntary administration to ensure Virgin Australia’s survival and workers’ jobs. 

Every job lost at Virgin Australia will be because of the inaction of the Morrison Government.

WEDNESDAY, 10 JUNE 2020