Local Fare Scheme – Cape York and Torres Strait
The Department of Transport and Main Roads will be introducing a new local fare funding scheme from 1 January 2012 to reduce the cost of air fares for locals on scheduled air services to selected communities in Cape York and the Torres Strait.
These selected communities are:
- Cape York – Kowanyama, Pormpuraaw, Aurukun, Northern Peninsula Area, Lockhart River and Coen
- Torres Strait – Badu, Boigu, Poruma, Erub, Mabuiag, Kubin, Mer, Saibai, Warraber, Iama and Masig.
The scheme recognises the high cost of travel to remote areas and low average incomes of these communities. It will improve access to health, education and employment opportunities for Cape York and Torres Strait residents. Further information is available in the Frequently Asked Questions section below.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: When will the scheme commence?
A: The scheme is expected to commence 1 January 2012.
Q: How much does a local fare cost?
A: A$99. This may increase marginally over time due to the Consumer Price Index (CPI).
Q: Who is eligible for the local fare scheme?
A: The scheme will be open to all community members that can demonstrate proof of residence.
Q: Are there exclusions to eligibility for the local fare scheme?
A: Non-residents, government agencies or businesses will not be eligible for the scheme, however they will have access to other standard fare categories.
Q: Will the scheme be means-tested?
A: Initially the scheme will not be means-tested, however this will be reviewed for effectiveness periodically after which a means test may be required and other changes considered.
Q: Why is the local fare the same for all affected communities?
A: While there are differences in distances travelled for each community, particularly between Cape York and the Torres Strait, current maximum airfares for each region are very similar due to the higher costs of operation in the Torres Strait, resulting from shorter runways, frequent stopping and the wear and tear from the maritime environment.
Q: What Air Service Operators will provide the local fare?
A: Local fares will be available through Skytrans and Hinterland Aviation in Cape York and West Wing Aviation in the Torres Strait.
Q: Will Cairns to Coen local fares be available from both of the current air service operators?
A: Local fares can be purchased from both Skytrans and Hinterland Aviation.
Q: Where can I access the local fare?
A: The local fares will only be available for booking through a local agent in Cape York and through phone-booking in the Torres Strait. Torres Strait fares will only be available as a return booking.
Q: Can I book the local fare on the Internet?
A: No, at this stage local fares will only be available through a local agent in Cape York or through a phone booking in the Torres Strait.
Q: Is there a limit on the number of local fares available per service?
A: There will be a cap on availability of local fares – around five seats on average for most Cape York services, and around two seats on average for most Torres Strait services. The reason for this difference is that Cape York services generally have larger aircraft at lower frequency and the Torres Strait generally has smaller aircraft with higher frequency.
Q: Does the scheme apply to Cooktown and Palm Island?
A: No, Cooktown is serviced by two subsidised long distance coach services to Cairns. Palm Island is serviced by a subsidised ferry service to Townsville.
Q: Does the scheme apply to other contracted air routes, such as Horn Island – Cairns and Weipa – Cairns?
A: No, the scheme doesn't apply to other contracted air routes, however QantasLink currently offers local fares on its contracted routes. These fares are set at a similar level to the local fare scheme.
Q: How far in advance can local fares be purchased?
A: Local fares will be released two months in advance. The return journey component of a return booking may be booked outside of the two month booking period. Bookings can be made through a local agent in Cape York and through phone-booking in the Torres Strait.
