Qantas and China Southern Airlines have agreed a codeshare deal that will be implemented from next year.
In a statement, China Southern Airlines said: "Qantas passengers can fly with China Southern from Sydney, Melbourne, Brisbane and Perth to its main hub of Baiyun International Airport Guangzhou then onward to four major Chinese destinations - Xiamen, Kunming, Fuzhou and Urumqi. The two airlines have also agreed to investigate other areas of potential cooperation, including pilot training assistance from Qantas and cargo opportunities."
In the same statement, Qantas chief executive Alan Joyce, described the deal as great news for the Australian airline.
"This is great news for the increasing number of Qantas customers travelling to China for business and leisure because it simplifies their journey and opens new destinations," said Joyce.
The codeshare agreement still has to be approved by regulators in China and Australia.