Australian Government Orders Security Overhaul After Armed Teen Breaches Avalon Airport

A 17-year-old allegedly boarded a Jetstar flight with a loaded shotgun, prompting nationwide risk assessments at regional airports.

The Australian government has mandated urgent security risk assessments at regional airports following a serious breach at Avalon Airport near Geelong.
A 17-year-old allegedly entered Avalon Airport through a hole in the perimeter fence and boarded a Jetstar flight armed with a loaded shotgun and ammunition.
Passengers and the pilot subdued the teenager, who also claimed to have bombs in his bag, before police arrived to take him into custody.
The Home Affairs Department is working on measures to enhance trespasser detection, monitoring, and overall security at regional airports across the country.
Industry experts and aviation unions have raised concerns about systemic vulnerabilities at smaller airports, including a lack of permanent police presence and outdated perimeter security.