I'm with Whiskery, once again this highlights the lack of government policy (by both sides) with respect to the contribution of aviation to Australia. With $22.3 billion allocated under the 2007-8 budget for land transport upgrades, they have spoken volumes.
"But the airports are privatised, I hear, and they are reponsible for meeting the requirements of the aviation commmunity". Yes, but trucks can use public roads, whereas aircraft are compelled to use privately owned facilities. Apples and Oranges.
"Other modes of transport are more reliable, particularly to regional areas" If adequate infrastructure was in place (navaids for lower mins, etc), then not only would aviation be more reliable, but wait, it would also be more economical and therefore competitive.
The government is responsible for ensuring that the national infrastructure is so developed to support all members of the transport community, not just those with the greatest Canberra pressure group. Wasn't it the incumbent government whos policy was "Nation Building".
We really seem determined to be a second world country.