[Sandy Reith]

Mike Borgelt President Australian EAA Chapter 1308 Inc. has submitted an extremely clear expose’ of the irrational and inefficient workings of our Australian aviation regulatory environment.

This situation has steadily strangled what was an industry employing thousands and serving a variety of purposes that only General Aviation (GA) can provide.

EAA Chapter 1308 has enunciated the reforms that are necessary if GA is to be revived with all the potential advantages that are waiting for the enabling reforms. Growth would see flying training spread once again all over Australia, creating employment and flying hours. The latter creates markets for airports, maintenance, aircraft sales and ground schools. Internationally recognised standards leads to manufacturing and many ancillary businesses.

We’ve arrived at this point because there’s been no political input into the regulatory process, unless Parliament’s rubber stamp counts.

The ill advised concept, initiated thirty three years ago, of a government function by an independent Commonwealth sponsored corporation, the monopoly provider of many unnecessary permissions, for which are required swinging fees, has failed with untold consequences, none of them good for Australia.

The only recognised and workable method of governance with accountability back to the electorate is via a Minister and Department. Until we find a better solution then the responsibility should reside with a Minister.

It is a traditional method that does work, not perfectly but can work to great advantage for Australia.

If reforms are made, how the future administration is structured will be critical to success.