Firefighting aircraft keeping Tasmania safe this bushfire season

The Tasmanian Government has today welcomed a fleet of specialised firefighting aircraft from the National Aerial Fighting Centre (NAFC), significantly bolstering the state’s firefighting capability ahead of the upcoming bushfire season.

The NAFC ensures all Australian states and territories are equipped with the aerial resources needed to combat bushfires each year. Tasmania has received 15 aircraft which are being managed by Tasmania Fire Service’s State Air Operations Unit.

Minister for Police, Fire and Emergency Management, Felix Ellis, said aerial firefighting remains an integral part of Tasmania’s bushfire response strategy, playing a vital role in protecting our communities and natural landscapes.

“A flexible aerial firefighting capability is essential for responding swiftly to bushfires, safeguarding communities, and providing critical support to firefighters on the ground,” Minister Ellis said.

“The NAFC is an excellent example of the collaboration between State, Territory, and Australian Governments, delivering the resources needed to achieve the best outcomes for our communities and emergency personnel.

“Whether it's our heroes on the ground or our angels in the sky, I want to thank all of our everyday heroes for stepping up to keep Tasmania safe this bushfire season.

“Through our Government’s 2030 Strong Plan for Tasmania’s Future, we are backing in our fire and emergency services with the tools they need to keep communities safe this summer.”

Federal Minister for Agriculture, Fisheries and Forestry and Small Business, and Member for Franklin, Julie Collins, reaffirmed the Commonwealth’s support for Aerial Firefighting across Tasmania this summer.

“We know that Tasmania has some of the most beautiful and ecologically important sites in the world, and I’m proud of the work that all levels of Government are doing to protect our natural environment and keep Tasmanians safe”

“On top of this fleet based out of Tassie, the Albanese Government has made a record investment in our National Aerial Capability bringing the total investment to $48 million per year, and expanding the fleet to include three multi-use heavy lift helicopters as well as a Large Air Tanker which can be used across all hazards.  

"We know in Tasmania, we can go quickly from fire to floods and storms, so having aircraft that can respond to a range of disasters is incredibly important".