BREAKING: Australian airline passengers facing cancelled or delayed flights may soon be guaranteed a refund under a new national code. Public consultations begin Monday, September 25, 2023, to establish aviation consumer protection standards aimed at providing immediate assistance to affected travelers.
Transport Minister Catherine King announced that the new scheme will set minimum compensation levels, including guaranteed refunds, access to food or accommodation, and quick re-booking options. “When things go wrong, it can be hard to know what passengers can expect from airlines or airports,” King stated, emphasizing the need for consistency across the industry.
The proposed consumer protection standards aim to clarify the obligations airlines and airports have to their passengers when flights are delayed or cancelled. Currently, passengers face varying responses, leading to confusion and frustration. King noted the Albanese government is committed to setting clear and enforceable standards for every Australian flying.
While the federal government has ruled out a European-style compensation scheme that mandates cash payments for delays, the upcoming standards will include an ombudsman scheme to assist customers who struggle to resolve complaints with airlines. King urged the public to participate in consultations over the next month to share their expectations for air travel.
This initiative comes amid increasing calls for better consumer protections in the aviation sector. In a related case, Qantas was recently hit with a record $90 million fine for illegally outsourcing workers, highlighting ongoing scrutiny of airline practices.
The consultations are a crucial step toward enhancing passenger rights in Australia, and officials are eager to gather feedback to shape the future of air travel in the country.
Stay tuned for more updates on this developing story, which promises to reshape the airline industry’s approach to customer service and transparency.
