BREAKING: Qantas has announced the closure of its bases in Canberra, Hobart, and Mildura effective April 2026, marking a significant blow to regional workers and raising alarms about the state of Australia’s aviation industry. As the airline grapples with soaring operational costs and an industry crisis, the news has left many employees feeling abandoned and anxious about their futures.
In a heated Senate inquiry held on Friday, executives from QantasLink, the regional arm of the airline, faced tough questions regarding the decision. Chief Executive Rachel Yangoyan revealed that costs for regional operations had skyrocketed, with expenses per seat running 130% higher than domestic counterparts and 230% more than international flights. This surge is attributed to inflated regional airport fees, security, fuel, and maintenance costs spread over fewer passengers.
“We need to make tough decisions to ensure the sustainability of our operations,” Ms Yangoyan said, reaffirming the company’s commitment to investing in regional Australia. However, her remarks did little to assuage the fears of the affected employees. The closure will impact the majority of the 71 cabin and flight crew stationed at these bases, with some receiving financial support to relocate or commute. Unfortunately, three cabin members have already opted to resign.
Senator Peter Whish-Wilson expressed deep concern for the morale of Qantas staff, highlighting the psychological toll that relocation has taken since the pandemic. He shared a poignant note from a former Qantas pilot, detailing the mental health struggles stemming from sudden relocations.
In response to these concerns, Ms Yangoyan acknowledged the emotional repercussions of the base closures. “We have spent considerable time working on ways to make this work so that they can continue to live in their communities,” she stated.
The Transport Workers Union (TWU) criticized Qantas for prioritizing profits over its employees and customers. Organiser Sam Lynch pointed to a $90 million Federal Court fine imposed in August for unlawfully outsourcing over 1,800 ground staff during the pandemic as evidence of the airline’s troubling business practices. “The aviation industry across our country is in crisis,” Lynch said, emphasizing that regional Australia is suffering the most.
The Flight Attendants’ Association of Australia Federal Secretary Teri O’Toole echoed these sentiments, stating that despite financial packages being offered to assist staff, no amount of money can replace the emotional loss of being uprooted. “This closure strips regional Australia of skilled jobs and forces loyal staff to make an impossible choice between livelihood and their loved ones,” she lamented.
The Senate inquiry will continue to investigate the aviation industry’s ability to serve regional and rural communities, with a report expected by mid-2026. As these closures loom, the future of regional air travel and its workforce hangs in the balance, leaving many to wonder what support will be extended to those affected.
Stay tuned for further updates as this story develops.
