Choice, a consumer advocacy group, has criticized the Australian government’s proposal to strengthen airline customer rights, arguing that it offers weaker protections than existing consumer laws. The group criticizes the use of “timeframe targets” instead of “deadlines” and emphasizes the need for clear standards for claim times and compensation for damaged, delayed, or lost luggage. Choice also calls for the charter to include the right to a replacement flight or refund when a flight is cancelled or significantly delayed, regardless of the reason. The Australian Services Union also urges the charter to require a minimum staff presence at airports to handle disruptions.

Source: https://www.theguardian.com/money/2025/mar/12/labors-bid-to-bolster-australian-airline-customer-rights-may-prove-weaker-than-existing-law-choice-warns