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The Royal Flying Doctor Service (RFDS) Tasmania has broken ground on a new $21 million base at Launceston Airport.
Replacing the ageing base first opened in 1988, the new hub – which will include clinical facilities, space for fixed-wing and rotary aircraft, ground vehicle transport, and room for surge workers – is backed by $15 million from the Commonwealth and $6 million from the Tasmanian government.
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“This funding marks a significant investment in the future of aeromedical services in northern Tasmania,” said Nicole Henty, chief executive of RFDS 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.”
The project was an election promise from the state government in 2024, and Tasmanian Minister for Health, Mental Health and Wellbeing, Bridget Archer, said it would “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,” she said.
“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.”
According to Transport and Infrastructure Minister Catherine King, the base would support 62 local jobs during the construction phase and 41 ongoing after its completion.
“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,” Minister King said.
“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.”
The facility is expected to open next year.
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