- Published:
- Tuesday 30 August 2022
A vision statement for next-generation electric aviation in Victoria details significant potential economic and environmental benefits and sets out a path to build an Advanced Air Mobility industry in the state.
Minister for Economic Development Tim Pallas today unveiled the Advanced Air Mobility Industry Vision Statement which outlines the Government’s plan to consult with the community, businesses and the Commonwealth Government on appropriate regulations and safety measures for a Victorian Advanced Air Mobility (AAM) industry.
The AAM Industry Vision Statement highlights opportunities in logistics, emergency services, healthcare and regional service delivery, including boosting jobs and economic activity. Consultation with industry and the community to develop AAM regulations, planning and safeguards is scheduled to begin in 2023.
A report by Deloitte Access Economics found the introduction of the AAM sector into the state could increase Victoria’s gross state product by $2.8 billion, create 1,300 new jobs annually and provide cost savings of hundreds of millions of dollars.
The use of AAM would encourage investments in zero-emission transport technology – boosting skills and providing opportunities for research and innovation in the private and university sectors – supporting the state’s target to achieve net-zero emissions by 2050.
To establish a safe and sustainable AAM sector, the AAM Industry Vision Statement prioritises community amenity and benefits, and emphasises energy security through greater use of renewables such as batteries and hydrogen.
Victoria has joined the World Economic Forum AAM Coalition of Cities and Regions to share knowledge and lessons in support of a coordinated and consistent approach to global AAM ecosystems. Other members include Paris, Los Angeles, Sao Paulo, Amsterdam, Incheon and Orlando.
In late 2021, Victoria and the federal Department of Infrastructure, Transport, Regional Development and Communications, the Civil Aviation Safety Authority and Airservices Australia established a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to collaborate on fostering the development of the AAM sector.
The MoU provides a framework for agencies to coordinate regulation efforts to establish a safe, sustainable and resilient AAM ecosystem.
To see the AAM Industry Vision Statement, go to invest.vic.gov.au/opportunities/advanced-air-mobility.
Quotes attributable to Minister for Economic Development Tim Pallas
“Advanced Air Mobility has the potential to provide major benefits in the form of jobs and secure supply chains, and the work we are doing now is crucial to how the sector will ultimately look.”
“AAM complements our investments in hydrogen and battery technology and broadening the state’s skill base.”
“We’ll be consulting widely, starting with the community and including our partners in the Albanese Government and aviation authorities.”