The federal government has moved Australia closer to international legislative practice by increasing the payout available to air accident victims to $725,000.
The $225,000 increase under the aviation legislation amendment (liability and insurance) bill 2012 aims to provide “adequate compensation” to claimants and is said to make access to compensation easier.
Minister for infrastructure and transport Anthony Albanese said the legislative reform brings the cap, which has not been adjusted since 1994 “into the 21st century to reflect current costs.”
He added: “Importantly, the liability of the airline is strict, meaning there is no requirement for air accident victims to prove fault. Accident victims and their families will be able to obtain compensation swiftly, with minimal legal fees, irrespective of whether the airline was in any way to blame for the injuries.”
