NSW Government Extends Western Air Services Subsidy Through November 2027

The NSW Government has announced an extension of the Western Air Services Subsidy, ensuring continued air connectivity for the far western communities of Bourke, Walgett, Lightning Ridge, and Cobar through to November 2027.

The subsidy, which was scheduled to expire in November, covers an operational area exceeding 111,000 square kilometres. In addition to the extension, the state government stated it is collaborating with Far North West regional councils to formulate longer-term aviation arrangements beyond the 2027 timeframe.

Under the subsidized arrangements, airline FlyPelican runs six return flights per week between Sydney and Cobar. Regional carrier Air Link operates eight weekly return routes connecting Bourke, Walgett, and Lightning Ridge.

According to a survey conducted by the Far North West Joint Organisation, 94 percent of surveyed residents and stakeholders identified the flight services as critical. The survey indicated that healthcare and medical-related travel accounted for 35 percent of trips, representing the most frequent reason for utilizing the flights. The findings also noted that air travel saves passengers an average of up to seven hours on a one-way journey compared to driving.

The services are used by local residents, visitors, and commercial operators, as well as essential personnel including medical specialists, doctors, nurses, tradespeople, and social workers.

Funding for the subsidy is sourced from the NSW Government’s $400 million Regional Development Trust, a program dedicated to regional infrastructure, transport, and economic development projects across the state.

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