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The WA government has pledged $12.5 million to a new purpose-built emergency services facility at Perth’s Jandakot Airport.
Jandakot’s new DFES Aviation Facility, expected to open by September next year, will bring WA’s Emergency Rescue Helicopter Service (ERHS) and Air Operations branches under one roof while supporting future growth in the Department of Fire and Emergency Services (DFES) aviation.
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“In such a vast State, aircraft have become a critical asset for emergency services in their response to a range of incidents, including fighting bushfires and performing rescues,” said WA Emergency Services Minister, Paul Papalia.
“It is important the State Government supports the DFES aerial fleet and provides a facility that will enhance emergency responses and rescue and recovery times.
“This is a significant investment in Western Australia’s emergency services aviation strategies as the new facility will be able to adapt and adjust to advances and additions to the aerial fleet.
“By providing modern, fit-for-purpose facilities, our aviation crews will be able to continue to help keep Western Australians safe.”
Measuring more than 8100m2 in size, the hub will include four hangars, office accommodation, training simulators, training rooms, amenities and crew rest areas.
“Previously, the Department of Fire and Emergency Services’ (DFES) Aviation Services branch – the Emergency Rescue Helicopter Service (ERHS) and Air Operations – were based at separate locations,” the government said in a statement.
“The DFES Aviation Facility, which is expected to be ready by September next year, meets contemporary response requirements and will improve operational efficiency with aerial assets and personnel in the one facility.
“DFES will continue to locate other aerial assets in locations around the State to meet operational requirements.”
According to WA Fire and Emergency Services commissioner Darren Klemm AFSM, the new consolidated facility will “help the RAC Emergency Rescue Helicopter Service and our other aerial assets answer calls for help”.
“Since its first flight in 2003, the Emergency Helicopter Rescue Service has completed close to 11,000 missions and flown almost 2.5 million kilometres across WA to come to the aid of Western Australians who have needed help,” he said.
“There are more than 40 specialised aircraft in the State’s aerial fleet, including 38 in the aerial firefighting fleet and three RAC Rescue Helicopters.
“Their management, including maintenance for some assets, will be considerably more efficient from the new, consolidated Jandakot complex.”
WA last year overhauled its DFES fleet with three new Leonardo AW139 rescue helicopters, and has also secured a pair of firefighting Black Hawks for another three years.
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