Decision to introduce 15 per cent rule of Perth Airport sale welcomed

12/9/96

Transport Minister Eric Charlton today welcomed the decision by the Federal Government to introduce the 15 per cent rule on the sale of Perth Airport.

"This is an important win for Western Australia," Mr Charlton said.

"I am delighted with the result.

"We have fought strongly over a long period to gain this decision. It demonstrates good government and the long-term benefits to this state will be immeasurable.

"This is not just about the Federal Government getting the highest price for Perth Airport but it is also about the development of strong, regional aviation around the State."

Mr Charlton said the decision meant that the future operators of Perth Airport would devote their energies to the development of Perth rather than take away profits from Perth to spend on eastern states airports.

Until the Federal Government amended the Airports Bill today, Perth Airport could have been totally owned by the future owner of Sydney Airport.

The WA Government had sought amendment to the Bill so that only 15 per cent of Perth Airport could be involved in a cross-ownership situation.

"We can now look forward to a local owner bidding for the airport which will ensure that Perth Airport is operated to the advantage of the State," Mr Charlton said.

He said there were three local consortia interested in bidding for Perth Airport.

The Federal Government advertised today for expressions of interest in running Perth, Melbourne and Brisbane airports. Sydney and Adelaide will be in the second round of bidding.

Mr Charlton congratulated WA Senator Winston Crane who argued WA's case with the Federal Government.

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