STATEMENT - QANTAS SERVICE CANCELLED

14 April 2026

I am extremely disappointed by Qantas’ decision, without consultation, to cancel its Mount Gambier services.

Air services are not a luxury for regional communities like Mount Gambier and surrounds, they are essential and are relied upon by business, by government and by residents alike.

I have long held concerns regarding the viability of Qantas’ services in to and out of Mount Gambier, principally because of their relative cost and inconvenience.

I raised those concerns directly with the CEO of QantasLink when we met to discuss my concerns in February this year.

Mid morning and mid afternoon flights across a limited number of days a week at high cost was never going to cut it and I made those concerns clear to QantasLink.

Instead of responding to this feedback in a way that would have increased patronage QantasLink has elected, without consultation, to cancel their service, which as I have said is extremely disappointing.

I can appreciate that fuel costs are placing pressure on Qantas but I am getting a bit sick and tired of regional communities being punished in Australia’s corporate boardrooms whenever things get tough.

I am also concerned for what this decision will mean for the local ground crew.

Our community celebrated Qantas’ arrival in our community and its commitment to it, I am saddened that Qantas’ commitment to the Limestone Coast was ultimately short lived.

Tony Pasin MP
Member for Barker
Shadow Minister for Scrutiny of Government Waste and Accountability
Shadow Minister Assisting for Fisheries and Forestry