International flights from Canberra will provide regional NSW with a boarding pass to unprecedented investment and tourism opportunities, says Federal Member for Hume Angus Taylor.

This week’s announcement by Singapore Airlines that it will be the first international airline to operate regular international flights in and out of Canberra will ensure the Hume electorate is “globally connected”, Mr Taylor said.

“It will be a game changer for our region. Not only will it truly put us on the tourism map, it will provide the platform for many of our innovative businesses to expand, export and grow,” he said.

The new ‘Capital Express’ route will operate from September and provide the nation’s capital with two direct international destination options: Singapore and Wellington, New Zealand. “Freight, produce services, tourism … the opportunities these direct flights will present is unprecedented. Exciting times are ahead,” Mr Taylor said.

The Canberra Region Joint Organisation (CBRJO) also applauded the announcement of international flights for passengers and freight by Singapore Airlines. CBRJO consists of 12 councils across the South East of NSW including Boorowa, Goulburn Mulwaree, Harden Shire, Palerang, Upper Lachlan, Yass Valley and Young Shire.

Chair of the CBRJO and Mayor of Boorowa Council,Cr Wendy Tuckerman, said the announcement is a game changer for regional NSW.

“This new venture is a significant building block in driving economic growth and further enhancing the diversity, opportunity and ability to promote multiple regional benefits across the Canberra region,” she said.

“Having international flights at our doorstep will provide a strong platform by which the CBRJO can promote its competitive strengths to potential visitors, investors, students, residents and businesses alike.”

The first flight into Canberra will be on September 21. For more details visit www.canberraairport.com.au/travellers/latest-news/singapore-airlines