CASA Media Release - 18 June 1999
CASA re-organises NSW air safety resources
The Civil Aviation Safety Authority is re-organising its resources in NSW to deliver more effective safety oversight of the aviation industry.
CASA is to concentrate resources at three important aviation centres - Sydney, Canberra and Tamworth.
The re-organisation means offices at Wagga Wagga and Coffs Harbour will close later this year.
CASA's Assistant Director for Aviation Safety Compliance, Laurie Foley, says CASA's move reflects changes in the aviation industry.
Mr Foley says the re-organisation will also allow CASA to provide a more balanced coverage of aviation in country NSW.
"The nature of the aviation industry has changed over time and CASA's oversight of country NSW operators isn't always carried out locally," Mr Foley says.
"An example is Kendell Airlines which is in fact handled by CASA's Melbourne office.
"That's appropriate because Kendell is an important regular public transport operator that needs complex and expert safety oversight only available from the range of staff at a larger CASA office.
"CASA resources will be well balanced to provide coverage of many smaller country NSW air operators and organisations through the offices in Canberra and Tamworth.
"In fact, we will be moving resources closer to many of the major aviation operators and organisations in southern NSW by establishing an area office at Canberra airport.
"Currently the Wagga office oversights seven aviation organisations based in Wagga.
"At the same time it's handling 26 organisations based in Canberra as well as a number on the NSW south coast and Snowy Mountains.
"While it is regrettable closing an office that has provided quality service to the aviation industry over nearly ten years, this is the right move for the aviation industry, the flying public and CASA."
CASA has eight staff working from the Wagga office. It is expected they will be relocated to the Canberra and Tamworth offices.
Media contact
Peter Gibson
ph 02 6217 1015
mobile 0419 296 446
Ref: ME9926PR