Australians back locally produced sustainable aviation fuel and regional jobs

New research commissioned by Sydney Airport shows strong public support for building a domestic sustainable aviation fuel (SAF) industry, with Australians recognising the opportunity to create regional jobs, support farmers and keep more of its natural resources and manufacturing capability at home.
Australia already produces many of the feedstocks needed to make SAF - from agricultural crops and residues to used cooking oil and household waste, yet much of this material is currently exported overseas to be processed into fuel.
Sydney Airport CEO Scott Charlton said Australia has a significant opportunity to develop a new regional industry centred on SAF.
“Locally producing SAF would reduce aviation emissions while creating jobs, supporting farmers, and strengthening Australia’s fuel security, and we continue to advocate for demand measures as part of the Australian Government’s investment in low-carbon liquid fuels.
“The current conflict in the Middle East highlights the importance of mandates that attract global investment and secure a domestic fuel supply.
“Globally, SAF mandates are accelerating, and Australia must implement measures to boost domestic SAF production, using feedstock that would otherwise be exported.”
Public support for sustainable aviation fuel is also stronger than many people realise. Research conducted by Sydney Airport in early March, revealed that although awareness of SAF remains relatively low, especially among those who hadn’t flown in the past year, support rises to 60 percent of Australians once they understand what SAF is and how it functions.
“Australians want to see this industry built here because they recognise the benefits for farmers, regional communities and Australia’s long-term fuel security,” Sydney Airport CEO Charlton concluded.