Australians support domestic SAF industry, Sydney Airport study shows

A study commissioned by Sydney Airport has shown that Australians strongly support the development of a domestic Sustainable Aviation Fuel (SAF) industry. 

The research, published on March 12, 2026, highlights the public’s recognition of the potential benefits, including the creation of regional jobs, support for farmers, and the retention of Australia’s natural resources and manufacturing capabilities.

Australia is already a producer of many of the feedstocks required to make SAF, such as agricultural crops, residues, used cooking oil, and household waste. However, much of this material is currently exported overseas for processing into fuel.

Scott Charlton, CEO of Sydney Airport, emphasized the significant opportunity for Australia to develop a new regional industry focused on SAF. 

“Locally producing SAF would reduce aviation emissions while creating jobs, supporting farmers, and strengthening Australia’s fuel security, and we continue to advocate for demand measures as part of the Australian Government’s AU 1.1 billion (US $736 million) investment in low-carbon liquid fuels,” Charlton said.

The research, conducted in early March 2026, revealed that although awareness of SAF remains relatively low, especially among those who hadn’t flown in the past year, support rises to 60% of Australians once they understand what SAF is and how it functions. Nearly 70% of Australians said they support the use of SAF, and the majority expressed willingness to contribute small amounts through airline tickets to help accelerate its development.

Australians also showed a clear preference for domestically-produced fuel. The strongest motivator for a domestic SAF industry is reducing aircraft emissions (57%), followed by the use of renewable Australian resources (49%), climate and broader environmental benefits (48%), improved fuel security (45%), support for Australian manufacturing (43%), and job creation and economic growth (42%).

Support for SAF was higher among frequent flyers and business travelers, with environmental concern being a contributing factor. The research also revealed a strong expectation for enhanced information and transparency regarding SAF’s production process, safety standards, and emissions reduction methods.

“Australians want to see this industry built here because they recognise the benefits for farmers, regional communities and Australia’s long-term fuel security,” Charlton said. “With global aviation demand continuing to grow, the window to establish a domestic Sustainable Aviation Fuel industry is now.”

Sydney Airport is participating in the Bioenergy Australia Renewable Fuels Summit in Sydney, which brings together government, industry, and investors to examine the role of renewable and low-carbon liquid fuels in supporting emissions reduction, fuel security, and domestic manufacturing.

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