The government says it will work with EY, the administrators of Rex, on an “upcoming competitive sale process” which is designed to find a buyer other than the government.
The Commonwealth will also work with shortlisted bidders to see if it can offer support to increase the chance of a sale.
However, if the sales process does not yield a buyer, the government has said it “will undertake necessary work, in consultation with relevant state governments, on contingency options, including preparations necessary for potential Commonwealth acquisition”.
“We are working collaboratively with the administrators of Rex to ensure that regional services continue beyond June 2025, including looking at what support the Commonwealth can provide,” said Prime Minister Anthony Albanese.
For conferences, the continued existence of Rex means delegates from regional and remote Australia will still be able to attend major city conferences. It may also help make some regional destinations viable as business event hosts.
“When markets fail or struggle to deliver for regional communities the government has a role to ensure people do not miss out on opportunities, education and critical connections,” said transport minister Catherine King.
“We are recognising that today and stepping in to keep these routes in the air.”
Following an expansion into more competitive capital city routes, Rex went into administration in July last year.
