Opened the debate
McAllister argued that the current voluntary industry arrangements for handling complaints had failed to protect consumers effectively. McAllister stated that the new framework would establish an independent Aviation Consumer Ombudsperson to resolve disputes and enforce a charter of obligations for airlines and airports. The minister highlighted data showing significant issues with on-time performance and low satisfaction rates among travellers experiencing disruptions. McAllister explained that the legislation would create a regulatory authority within the Department of Infrastructure to oversee compliance and investigate systemic issues. McAllister noted that the associated levy bills would allow the government to recover administrative costs from the industry.