The $21 million RFDS base will support aeromedical retrieval services across Tasmania and enable the delivery of a range of health care services to rural and remote communities, including the Bass Strait Island communities.
This redevelopment will include facilities for world-class clinical care, as well as adequate capacity for fixed wing aircrafts, and rotary aircrafts when required, ground vehicle transfers and the space needed to cater for surge workers when required.
It will increase the reach of support programs for mental health, dental and general practitioner services to the state's regions and maintain the urgent care services that have already saved many Tasmanian lives.
The new base at Launceston Airport is receiving $15 million of support from the Australian Government under the Priority Community Infrastructure Program, and $6 million from the Tasmanian Government.
It replaces the ageing RFDS base which opened at the Launceston Airport in 1998.
The construction phase is expected to support up to 62 full time jobs, and once operational, the new base will create up to 41 ongoing jobs in Tasmanian healthcare.
Quotes attributable to Infrastructure, Transport, Regional Development and Local Government Minister Catherine King:
"This sod turn in Launceston comes just weeks after cutting the ribbon on a new Australian Government funded RFDS hangar in Mount Isa, servicing rural and remote Queensland.
"Our government is proud to support infrastructure that boosts access to essential healthcare for communities and creates local jobs.
"We have the back of the Royal Flying Doctor Service, and through that, Tasmanians know we have their backs too."
Quotes attributable to Tasmanian Health, Mental Health and Wellbeing Minister Bridget Archer:
"The Tasmanian Government is pleased to be partnering with the RFDS and the Australian Government to deliver this crucial piece of infrastructure that will support Tasmanians across the State for years to come.
"Importantly, last December we locked in a new 10-year partnership with the RFDS to continue delivering fixed-wing aeromedical services for Tasmanians in their time of need, bolstered by a new Beechcraft King Air B350.
"Once complete, this new airbase will enhance the delivery of these vital services, which ensure patients can be safely transferred between health facilities across Tasmania and interstate.
"The redevelopment will boost fixed-wing aeromedical responses throughout Tasmania and also provide improved facilities to support transiting rotary-wing aircraft during complex deployments - strengthening access to timely emergency care for Tasmanians."
Quotes attributable to Assistant Health and Aged Care Minister Rebecca White:
"The Royal Flying Doctor Service is a lifeline for so many Tasmanians, delivering essential care and connecting people in rural communities with the health services and support they need.
"This investment will strengthen the Royal Flying Doctor Service's work, so more Tasmanians can get the care they need, no matter where they live."
Quotes attributable to Federal Member for Bass Jess Teesdale:
"Everyone knows the irreplaceable lifesaving services provided by the Royal Flying Doctors.
"I hope, through this new hangar, they continue to play their crucial role in the fabric of Tasmanian healthcare for decades to come."
Quotes attributable to Nicole Henty, CEO RFDS Tas:
"This funding marks a significant investment in the future of aeromedical services in northern Tasmania.
"The Launceston Base redevelopment will ensure RFDS Tasmania can continue to support the delivery of high‑quality emergency and primary health care to Tasmanians, when and where they need it most.
"Modern, fit‑for‑purpose facilities are critical to maintaining safe and efficient operations. This redevelopment will enhance operational readiness, support our teams, improve communications and enhance our working partnerships across our 10 year Aeromedical contract with Ambulance Tasmania and reinforces our commitment for rural and remote communities."
