Cobar’s air services have been secured for
another year after the Minns Labor
Government announced last week it would
extend the Western Air Services Subsidy for
another year to keep affordable, reliable air
services flying to Cobar, Bourke, Walgett
and Lightning Ridge.
The subsidy, which was due to expire in
November this year, will now continue through
to November 2027, ensuring people living in
some of NSW’s most remote communities can
stay connected to essential services, jobs and
larger regional centres.
The Minns Labor Government is also
looking beyond the immediate extension,
working with Far North West regional councils
to develop longer-term arrangements for air
services beyond November 2027.
Covering an area of more than 111,000
square kilometres, the Western Air Services
Subsidy makes it easier for Western NSW
residents to access health care, education,
emergency services and business
opportunities, while staying connected with
family and friends.
Under the agreement, FlyPelican operates six
return flights each week between Sydney and
Cobar, while Air Link operates eight return
routes each week servicing Bourke, Walgett
and Lightning Ridge.
A survey conducted by the Far North West
Joint Organisation found 94 per cent of
residents and stakeholders consider the flights
critical, with health care and medical travel the
most common reason for using the service at
35 per cent.
The survey also found the flights are saving
passengers on average up to seven hours for a
one-way trip compared with road travel.
Residents, businesses, visitors, doctors,
specialists, nurses, social workers, trades and
other essential workers use the flights to travel
to and from these communities.
The subsidy is funded through the NSW
Government’s $400 million Regional
Development Trust, which invests in projects
that improve transport, liveability, economic
opportunity and services across regional NSW.
Minister for Agriculture and Regional NSW
Tara Moriarty said reliable air services are
helping Western NSW communities stay
connected to the people, services and
opportunities that matter most.
“For people in Bourke, Walgett, Lightning
Ridge and Cobar, these flights make it easier to
access health care, education, jobs, business
opportunities and stay connected with family
and friends,” Minister Moriarty said.
“Extending this subsidy gives communities
greater certainty and confidence, while
supporting the strong regional connections that
help Western NSW thrive.”
