6/01/06
Low-cost carrier Jetstar will start services to Perth from Melbourne Avalon Airport on March 28, Acting Premier Eric Ripper announced today.
Making the announcement at Perth Airport with Jetstar A/CEO Bruce Buchanan, Mr Ripper said the daily service would see hundreds of additional Eastern States visitors land in Perth each week, bringing in valuable tourism dollars and creating jobs and opportunities for locals.
“The introduction of Jetstar into the Western Australian market will put us on an even footing with the rest of the country when it comes to budget flights,” the Acting Premier said.
“Jetstar’s low fares will inject competition into the market and make WA a viable option for those people who have long had this State at the top of their wish list, but have been deterred by flight costs.
“Experience in other cities shows us that the introduction of Jetstar really boosts tourism activity.
“It has been very successful on all its routes in attracting people who have never flown before and in offering fares that are very competitive.”
Tourism Minister Mark McGowan said the State Government had been negotiating with Jetstar for some time to encourage them to add Perth to their schedule.
“To secure this deal, the State Government agreed to a co-operative marketing and promotional campaign with Jetstar and Perth Airport,” Mr McGowan said.
“We are also working hard to secure further flights from other Australian centres, such as Sydney and Brisbane.”
Mr Ripper said the State Government was spending $91million over five years to market WA interstate and overseas, with the aim of establishing it as the nation’s premier tourism State.
“As part of this massive campaign, we will be spending $850,000 between March and June on subscription television, magazine and outdoor advertising in the Eastern States,” he said.
“We are hoping this will emulate the success of last year’s $3million campaign, which generated an additional 33,000 visitors who spent $81million.
“Our research after that campaign showed that nearly 80 per cent of those interviewed were more interested in holidaying in WA.”
Jetstar will use Terminal Three at the Perth Domestic Airport. Airport general manager Richard Gates said the terminal had been upgraded over the previous 12 months and was continuing to be refurbished into a first-class facility.
Acting Premier’s office: 9222 8788
Tourism Minister’s office: 9222 9111
