Australia is taking a big step toward improving its global air connections. The Joint Standing Committee on Treaties (JSCOT) is reviewing three important air service agreements with Colombia, Peru, and Saudi Arabia.
These agreements could make it easier for airlines to operate between Australia and these countries, encouraging more travel, trade, and business. The hearing, held on October 27, 2025, will help the government decide whether these deals truly serve Australia’s national interest.
What Are the New Air Agreements?
The proposed agreements are designed to help airlines from all four countries — Australia, Colombia, Peru, and Saudi Arabia — fly between each other’s airports freely.
In simple words, Australian airlines will be allowed to fly to any destination in these countries, while their airlines can also fly to any city in Australia.
These agreements are meant to open new flight routes, make travel smoother, and build stronger relationships between nations. More flights could mean better trade opportunities, easier movement of goods, and an increase in tourism.
Key Benefits of These Air Service Deals
If these air agreements are approved, Australians and international travelers may see several benefits.
- More Tourism: With new flight routes, more visitors from Colombia, Peru, and Saudi Arabia could come to Australia, helping boost hotels, restaurants, and attractions.
- Trade Growth: Exporters will gain faster and easier access to South America and the Middle East, helping Australian businesses grow globally.
- Employment Opportunities: The expansion of air routes means more jobs for pilots, engineers, flight attendants, and airport workers.
- Cultural Exchange: More international flights can promote understanding and friendship between different cultures.
- Lower Flight Prices: With more airlines operating, competition may help bring down ticket prices for passengers.
Committee Chair Lisa Chesters MP said that these deals could provide huge benefits for Australian travelers and businesses by opening up more commercial opportunities in the tourism and export sectors.
What the Committee Will Examine
Before approving the agreements, the committee will carefully check whether they protect Australia’s interests. Here is what the committee will look into:
| Focus Area | What Will Be Reviewed |
|---|---|
| Safety and Security | Ensuring all flights follow Australia’s high aviation safety standards. |
| Customs and Quarantine | Making sure health and border security measures are strong. |
| Competition Law | Checking that airlines operate fairly and customers get better choices. |
| National Interest | Confirming that the agreements will bring economic and social benefits to Australians. |
Officials from the Department of Infrastructure, Transport, Regional Development, Communications, Sport and the Arts and the Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade will give evidence during the hearing.
Public Hearing Details
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Date | Monday, 27 October 2025 |
| Time | 11:15 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. (AEDT) |
| Place | Committee Room 2R1, Parliament House, Canberra |
| Type of Event | Public hearing (open to media and citizens) |
During this session, the committee will listen to expert opinions and assess how these international air links can help the Australian economy and travelers.
How It Could Affect Travelers and Businesses
If approved, travelers could see new flight routes connecting Australia directly with major cities in Colombia, Peru, and Saudi Arabia. More routes often mean better availability and possibly cheaper tickets.
Businesses will also benefit because faster connections can reduce transport time for goods. This is especially important for products that need quick delivery, like fresh food, medical items, and high-value exports.
Tourism and education sectors may also gain as students and visitors find it easier to come to Australia.
The review of air service agreements between Australia, Colombia, Peru, and Saudi Arabia marks a major move toward improving international connectivity. These agreements can create more travel options, encourage trade, and build economic partnerships.
However, the committee must ensure that these deals are safe, fair, and beneficial to Australia’s interests. If approved, they will help Australia strengthen its presence in both South America and the Middle East while supporting tourism, jobs, and global cooperation.
