Australian Airports Association (AAA) chief executive officer Simon Westaway has resigned from the role.
Westaway began his tenure in November 2024 and quickly connected with trade media, and co-operated other aviation and travel industry leaders, to engage with government at the highest level.
Westaway said the decision followed reflection on the Association’s next stage and would allow him to spend more time in Melbourne with his family at an important time.
Westaway’s wife, Rachel Westaway, is a sitting MP for the Victorian State seat of Prahran.
“It’s been a privilege to work with hundreds of diverse airport members across Australia and to strongly leverage the AAA’s role in best representing airports nationally,” he said.
“I have greatly valued the engagement, insight and support of members, and am proud of the strong and effective role the AAA continues to play in representing airports and their enabling role in the communities they serve.”
Westaway said that the association is a key advocate of the $105 billion sector, supporting the important contribution airports make to communities and the wider national economy.
“The AAA is well placed for its next stage, with a capable team, strong member relationships and a clear purpose in supporting and representing airports. I am confident the AAA will continue to be a strong and constructive voice for the sector.
“Aviation has been a lifelong passion, and I look forward to maintaining my connection to it.”
One of his biggest passions was for the Federal Government to spend a greater share of the rising Passenger Movement Charge at our borders on technology to fully digitise the incoming passenger card, bolster kiosks in terminals and drive greater use of biometrics and SmartGates for the Australian Border Force.
A fierce advocate
AAA Chair Kym Meys thanked Westaway for his contribution to the AAA, including his advocacy for members, engagement with government and industry stakeholders, and support for the AAA’s national profile.
“Simon has brought energy and in-depth sector knowledge to the role,” Meys said. “Under his leadership, the AAA has continued to strengthen its advocacy for members, build constructive relationships with government and industry stakeholders, maintain a strong national voice for airports, and delivered important member engagement through events, policy work and sector representation.
“The Board thanks Simon for his leadership of the AAA and the broader airport sector and wishes him well for the future.”
Providing continuity
Westaway will step down from Monday 17 August 2026.
The AAA’s head of policy and advocacy, Natalie Heazlewood will act as CEO during the interim period while the Board undertakes recruitment for a permanent CEO.
Meys said the interim arrangements would provide continuity for members, staff and stakeholders.
“The AAA’s focus remains unchanged. The team will continue to represent the interests of airports, support members, engage constructively with government and industry, and deliver the important program of work already underway,” Meys said.
“Natalie, the Board and the AAA team will continue to support members and progress the Association’s important work through this interim period.”
