Survey Shows Strong Public Support for Domestic SAF Industry in Australia

A new study commissioned by Sydney Airport shows strong public support for developing a domestic sustainable aviation fuel (SAF) industry in Australia. The research indicates that Australians recognize the potential benefits of SAF, including creating regional jobs, supporting farmers, and keeping more of the country’s natural resources and manufacturing capacity within Australia.

Australia already produces many of the feedstocks required to manufacture SAF, such as crops, agricultural residues, used cooking oil, and municipal waste. However, much of these materials are currently exported and processed overseas rather than being converted into fuel domestically.

Sydney Airport CEO Scott Charlton said Australia has a significant opportunity to build a new regional industry centered on SAF. Local production could help reduce aviation emissions while also creating jobs, supporting farmers, and strengthening the country’s fuel security.

Charlton also noted that the ongoing tensions in the Middle East highlight the importance of policies that attract global investment and ensure stable domestic fuel supplies. Around the world, SAF mandates are advancing rapidly, and Australia needs to act in order to convert locally produced feedstocks into domestic SAF production.

The survey conducted by Sydney Airport in early March also found that public support for SAF rises significantly once people understand what it is. While overall awareness remains relatively low—especially among people who have not flown in the past year—support increases to about 60% after the concept and benefits of SAF are explained.