The Australian Government, through the National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA), will deliver a greatly enhanced national aerial emergency response capability, with funding of $35 million over the next two financial years from 2024-25.

NEMA will work with the National Aerial Firefighting Centre to shape the future fleet of aircraft that can be used for firefighting, emergency rescue and evacuation and other emergency assistance for Australians in all types of disasters.

While states and territories have, and will continue to have, primary responsibility for Australia’s aerial firefighting capacity, the Australian Government has made significant improvements to the way states and territories are supported in disaster preparedness, response and recovery. 

Purpose

This measure builds Australia’s national capability to respond to disasters and responds to a key recommendation from the Royal Commission into National Natural Disaster Arrangements, also easing the pressure on Australian Defence Force personnel and aerial assets.

It will increase the preparedness of governments to respond during disasters, as well as increase safety for Australians. 

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the current state of the national aerial firefighting fleet?

As at 31 March 2024 the contracted national fleet comprises of 162 aircraft, including:

• 6 Large fixed wing air tankers
• 15 Large rotary wing aircraft (Type 1)
• 70 Medium and small rotary wing aircraft (Type 2 and 3)
• 56 Fixed wing firebombers
• 15 Light fixed wing

What will the expansion include?

In addition to supporting the leasing costs of the Fleet, the additional funding will: 

• provide protection to communities throughout the longer higher risk weather seasons that overlap with the northern hemisphere through the leasing of specialised aircraft; 
• ensure the Fleet will include adequate aerial firefighting and multi-use capability aircraft; and 
• ensure the Fleet can be used and in support of international requests for assistance. 

An investment of $0.56 million in 2024-25 will support a comprehensive review of Australia’s national aerial firefighting requirements, the current Fleet and funding model. 

Will the expanded fleet perform additional functions?

The Australian Government, through NEMA, will work with NAFC to shape the composition of the Fleet so it can be used for firefighting, emergency rescue and evacuation and other emergency assistance for Australians in all types of disasters.