Don Randall (Canning, Liberal Party, Shadow Cabinet Secretary) Share this | Link to this | Hansard source

Last evening I had the misfortune of transiting through Perth Airport. I raise this issue because I was asked to by staff of the Perth Airport as I endeavoured to find my way through. I have raised this issue on several occasions in this parliament. Unfortunately, the functioning of Perth Airport is an absolute disgrace for two reasons: the owners, Westralia Airports Corporation, and Qantas. In addressing this issue, I said in my address-in-reply speech that huge queues for check-in, lengthy waits at baggage carousels, a severe shortage of parking space and intolerable queues for taxis are everyday inconveniences of the Perth Airport.

I have previously likened Perth Airport to the chaos of a Third World country. I am sure that many travellers who pass through this terminal would agree with me. In fact, I am sure members in this room would agree with me. The present situation clearly does not create a good first impression of a vibrant city that visitors want to be left with. In February I wrote to the Prime Minister, Mr Rudd, and I received a response on 8 May this year from the relevant minister, Minister Albanese. He said that he acknowledged the problem. I am in good company on this issue, Madam Deputy Speaker— (Time expired)