Victorian Liberals promise $100 Mildura to Melbourne flights if elected

Victorians living in a major regional centre could soon have access to discounted flights if the opposition wins the state election.

Flights from Melbourne to Mildura could soon be capped at $100 under an ambitious election promise put forward by the Victorian Liberals.

The $23m trial would cap return airfares between the hubs and be available twice to anyone living within 150km of Mildura over the next two years.

Party leader Matthew Guy said the plan was intended to connect Victorians living in different parts of the state.

“Part of Mildura’s beauty is its isolation, but that can come at a hefty price for those looking to get to Melbourne, with return flights often costing more than $400,” he said.

“Our plan will make it easier and cheaper for locals to get to and from home, ensuring time spent with friends and family, or important appointments, aren’t missed.

Mildura Airport could soon have discount flights to Melbourne. Picture: Glenn Milne

“Capping return flights at $100 is a real solution to the growing cost of living and transport. Mildura locals have called for flight subsidies for some time, and we’ll deliver it.”

Return flights between Mildura and Melbourne range between $300 and $800.

Flights and services were cut at Mildura airport during Covid, some of which are yet to return.

Tourism in the town plummeted around 30 per cent from its annual value of $550m as a result.

However, the plan wouldn’t be available to tourists.

The Nationals leader Peter Walsh said Mildura was in desperate need of more transport options.

“Capped flights are a real alternative to passenger rail, which can’t be considered until the botched Murray Basin Rail Project has been completed,” he said.

Opposition Leader Matthew Guy is promising cheap flights between Mildura and Melbourne. Picture: NCA NewsWire / David Geraghty

“The Liberals and Nationals have already committed the necessary $5m to complete a business case for the Murray Basin Rail Project – something Labor refuses to match.

“While Mildura independent Ali Cupper begs Dan Andrews and Labor for infrastructure and investment, a Liberals and Nationals government will immediately provide a fast and affordable transport solution.”

Mildura is set to be hotly contested in Victoria’s November 26 election, with Ms Cupper attempting to retain her seat.

She will largely be competing for votes against Liberal candidate Paul Matheson and National Party candidate Jade Benham.

Originally published as Victorian Liberals promise $100 Mildura to Melbourne flights if elected