Jobs saved, more flights as Jetstar signs $12m ‘deal’ with state

A DEAL to keep Jetstar at Avalon Airport has saved 200 jobs, according to Premier Daniel Andrews.
The agreement will also deliver 700 extra visitors a week to the region as Jetstar increases its number of Avalon flights from five to seven a day and adds two more domestic destinations.
The budget carrier’s future at Avalon was in doubt, with a previous state assistance package running out this month.
The loss of Jetstar as Avalon’s only major passenger airline would have been a blow to the viability of the airport.
The new agreement will cost taxpayers $12 million over the next 10 years.
Mr Andrews said Jetstar would “increase operations and expand to new routes to grow patronage”.
“We’re securing a bigger and brighter future for Avalon and saving up to 200 local jobs. This partnership means more flights to more destinations, and will create jobs for Geelong and the region.”
Geelong Mayor Darryn Lyons, who spearheaded a local campaign to keep Jetstar at Avalon, was “thrilled”.
“I’d like to thank Jetstar for continuing to support Avalon Airport and greater Geelong as it has done for the past 11 years,” he said.
“This is fantastic news for the 193 workers who are currently employed at Avalon and provides a platform for more local jobs in the future.
“I’d also like to thank Premier Daniel Andrews and the State Government for showing faith in Jetstar, the airport and in our region. I want to see all of Geelong throwing their support behind Jetstar and flying out of Avalon whenever possible.”
Cr Lyons said he fought hard for Avalon Airport because it was a “strategically vital asset” to the region that completed its “transport package”
“Its proximity to both Geelong and Melbourne means our region can service passenger and commercial operations. And, internationally, it gives Geelong easy access to neighbouring emerging markets.
“Locally, it provides jobs in Geelong and the neighbouring western growth corridor. Not only through those employed at the airport but those created through flow on to our booming Geelong and Bellarine tourism industry.”
Victorian Employers’ Chamber of Commerce and Industry (VECCI) welcomed the announcement.
“Avalon Airport supports tourism and business travel in Victoria, particularly to our state’s drawcard tourist destinations such as the Great Ocean Road and Bellarine Peninsula,” VECCI said.
“We commend the State Government for working together with Jetstar to reach this outcome and deliver a win for Victorian business.”