This week I approved a determination to release $550.0 million in additional funding to support the Government’s response to the COVID‑19 pandemic by using the Advance to the Finance Minister (the AFM).

This AFM delivers on the Government’s commitment in the 2021‑22 Budget to provide certainty to AirServices Australia (AirServices) about forward-funding of their operations, through provision of a grant in the 2020-21 year.

This support takes account of the adverse impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on AirServices’ revenues and the need for continuity of critical air navigation, air traffic control, and aviation fire and rescue services.

The AFM was provided using appropriations approved by the Parliament in Appropriation Act (No. 1) 2020-2021. The determination provided $550.0 million to the Department of Infrastructure Transport, Regional Development and Communications, so they could make the grant to Airservices.

The determination was signed on 24 June 2021. This determination was registered on the Federal Register of Legislation, together with an Explanatory Statement (these are available at legislation.gov.au ).