A future full of delivery drones and commuters flying to work is a tiny step closer, with the signing of a government agreement to develop advanced aerial mobility.
The federal and Victorian governments have signed a memorandum of understanding to develop a safe a sustainable AAM industry.
AAM will cover aerial electric vehicles and advanced freight drones, and it is hoped it could one day provide high-speed emergency services and bushfire monitoring.
It is envisioned the industry could also develop automated electric air taxis, reducing traffic in cities, and travel times for people living in the regions.
"People who choose to live in regional areas should not be disadvantaged or cut off from the goods and services they need, particularly health care," Deputy Prime Minister Barnaby Joyce said in a statement.
"Developing this industry will ensure regional Australians are better connected to major cities and the services they rely on."
The technology has a way to go - with safety, noise and privacy among the key regulatory issues to be resolved - but the Victorian government believes developing the industry will mean more jobs.
"Advanced Aerial Mobility has enormous potential for Victoria, bringing the latest technology to our health and emergency services, as well as improving connectivity," Victorian Treasurer Tim Pallas said.
He said Victoria already has capabilities in aerospace, defence, advanced manufacturing and software development.
"Victoria has long embraced innovation and this partnership will put us at the forefront of a new industry which will create thousands of jobs as sustainable aviation technologies emerge," Mr Pallas said.
The federal government has committed more than $35 million to develop new aviation technologies, with a focus on regional Australia.
The MoU is between the federal department of infrastructure, the Civil Aviation Safety Authority, Airservices Australia, and the Victorian government.
Australian Associated Press
