This interim report is focussed on the immediate impact of COVID-19 on the aviation workforce. It sets out the committee's early findings on the adequacy of government support for aviation workers responsible for maintaining the viability of the aviation sector through the pandemic.

While this report outlines some of the major issues faced by the aviation sector as a result of COVID-19, it is not intended to provide an exhaustive examination of the many issues raised with the committee in written submissions, correspondence and hearings. The committee will report on these issues in greater detail in its final report.

This interim report is divided into three chapters:

• Chapter 1 provides an overview of the committee's conduct as well as a brief background of Australia's aviation sector.
• Chapter 2 outlines the Australian Government's support for aviation during COVID-19. In particular, it examines JobKeeper and relevant issues, such as eligibility criteria and the impact these have had on the aviation workforce.
• Chapter 3 discusses the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on the aviation and tourism sectors, in terms of job losses, stand downs and the resultant loss of skills. It also outlines the need for ongoing support to sustain Australia's aviation sector and ensure it is ready to lead economic recovery once travel restrictions are lifted.