Joint media release with Susan Templeman MP
The National Aerial Firefighting Fleet is now in position and ready to respond when disasters hit, as Australia gears up for the 2025-26 Higher Risk Weather Season.
As part of the Albanese Government's record investment into national aerial firefighting, this season, the Australian Government will have multi-use aerial capabilities ready to respond to a range of hazards.
The National Aerial Firefighting Centre (NAFC) annually contracts approximately 160 aircraft on behalf of the state and territory governments.
Since the establishment of the Commonwealth-funded assets, these aircraft have responded to a range of different crises including floods and fires.
Through the National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA), more than $50 million in 2025-26 is being invested in enhancing Australia's national aerial emergency response capability.
Within the national fleet, the Australian Government funds five aircraft, comprising of two fixed wing and three rotary wing aircraft.
These aircraft are primarily used for firefighting, but can also contribute to supporting Australian communities across the country, whether that's evacuations, resupply of essential goods or logistics support.
The aircraft will supplement current state and territory arrangements and ensure we are in the best position to deploy aircraft even if there are multiple disasters.
The Australian Government will continue its work with NAFC to shape the composition of the Fleet so it can be used for firefighting, emergency resupply, emergency services transport, evacuation, and other emergency assistance for Australians in all types of disasters.
Federal Minister for Emergency Management, Kristy McBain said Australia is well-prepared for the impending weather events ahead.
"While severe weather can occur at any time of the year, October to April is the peak time for flooding, tropical cyclones, heatwaves, bushfires and severe thunderstorms," Minister McBain said.
"With this National Aerial Firefighting Fleet, Australia has the capabilities to respond urgently to emergency events of various natures, wherever they occur across the country.
"This is an important time for all of us to prepare for the season.
"Please ensure that you, your families, and your friends have emergency plans ready and in place in case you're in a vulnerable location. The more we prepare, the fewer lives are at risk."
Member for Macquarie Susan Templeman said, "As the epicentre of the 2019-20 Gospers Mountain fire and the location of multiple floods in recent years, my community appreciates the need to be well prepared for disasters.
"Having the RFS aerial operations and fleet operating from Richmond is of great benefit to my community and beyond.
"Not only does the Base allow uninterrupted operations, but its strategic location means aircraft can respond to fires up and down the eastern seaboard," said Ms Templeman.
