The USA is about to ramp up its passenger protection regime as well:
The U.S. Department of Transportation is set to announce a rule requiring airlines to compensate and pay expenses for controllable delays and cancellations.
loyaltylobby.com
Imagine the push back that Qantas would mount, calling in all its favours from the Chairman's Lounge member politicians, and putting pressure on the media that it advertises with. Look how they are treating the AFR today because AJ will not tolerate criticism.