Airports Act 1996

Here is a brief overview of the Airports Act 1996:

The Airports Act 1996 is a comprehensive law that regulates the management, operation and development of airports in Australia. The Act provides for the grant and management of airport leases, as well as restrictions on ownership and control of airport-operator companies. It also covers aspects such as environmental management, quality of service monitoring and reporting, and control of certain on-airport activities.

The Act establishes the requirements for the approval and operation of major airport developments, including the preparation and submission of master plans and plans of development. It also provides for the protection of airspace around airports and the regulation of commercial activities such as trading and vehicle movements.

Key provisions of the Act include:

• The requirement for airport-operator companies to be owned and controlled by Australian citizens or residents
• Restrictions on foreign ownership and control of airport-operator companies
• Requirements for environmental management and monitoring at airports
• Control of certain on-airport activities, including liquor sales, commercial trading, vehicle movements, and smoking
• Protection of airspace around airports

The Act also establishes the role of the ACCC in monitoring quality of service at airports and enforcing compliance with the Act.