A re-elected Rockliff Liberal Government will act to secure a new purpose-built home for the Royal Flying Doctors Service at Launceston Airport.

Minister for Health, Guy Barnett, said that the RFDS is a vital part of Tasmania’s health system, and ensuring they have a new base to operate from is an important part of the Liberals’ 2030 Strong Plan for Tasmania’s Future.

“The RFDS has been operating out of its current base at Launceston Airport since 1998, supporting aero-medical services for Tasmania, under contract with Ambulance Tasmania," Minister Barnett said.

“At the last Federal election, the RFDS received a $15 million pledge from the Federal Government for the construction of a new purpose-built Base at Launceston Airport.

“Planning for the base is well advanced, and subject to approvals, it is expected construction will commence later this year.

“As well as being the headquarters for RFDS Tas and hangaring their aircraft, the new base has been designed in close consultation with Ambulance Tasmania, including an Ambulance Tasmania Operations Room, enclosed ambulance parking bays, patient transfer room, six Ambulance Tasmania crew rest rooms, and Ambulance Tasmania administrative space.

“However, since the original concept plans were made in early 2022, the cost of constructing the new Base has increased, and is now estimated by the RFDS’ quantity surveyor at over $21 million.

“By contributing $6 million, we will ensure the construction of the base to be substantially funded, and enable the RFDS to get on with their vital work.”

CEO of the Royal Flying Doctors Tasmania, Nicole Henty and Chair, Malcolm White, welcomed the announcement.

“This is welcome news and now means that we can build a base which ensures we can deliver the services to Tasmania that the community deserves.

“The Royal Flying Doctors Service in Tasmania has been operating aeromedical and health services in the state since the early 1960’s and we look forward to delivering services for many years to come.”