The Albanese Government has reaffirmed its commitment to supporting aerial firefighting operations by extending the agreement granting the New South Wales (NSW) Rural Fire Service (RFS) access to key Defence bases, including HMAS Albatross, through to 2029.

This agreement ensures the RFS can continue its vital work in protecting local communities and the environment, utilising Defence sites such as RAAF Base Richmond, RAAF Base Williamtown, and HMAS Albatross for aerial firefighting operations. The NSW RFS, the world’s largest volunteer fire service, provides fire and emergency response to approximately 95 percent of the state.

The Australian Defence Force (ADF) has a long-standing history of assisting emergency services, offering critical support during events such as the Black Summer bushfires, the 2022 Eastern Australia floods, and the recent North Queensland floods.

In a testament to their strong partnership, Defence personnel and the NSW RFS have engaged in joint training exercises. In February 2024, soldiers collaborated with RFS personnel at RAAF Base Richmond, practicing underslung cargo lifts with helicopters as part of a new training agreement. This initiative fosters a dependable working relationship between the two organizations, ensuring coordinated disaster response efforts.

Minister for Defence Industry and Capability Delivery, Pat Conroy, emphasised the significance of this partnership, stating:

“This commitment provides important certainty for the RFS and supports their critical work to keep Australians and communities safe from bushfires. This relationship goes to the heart of the concepts of national defence and resilience, as outlined in the National Defence Strategy, by bolstering the NSW Rural Fire Service’s ability to respond to natural disasters.”

Federal Member for Gilmore, Fiona Phillips, welcomed the extension, acknowledging the crucial role of HMAS Albatross in disaster response:

“We all know how important HMAS Albatross is both for defence and in times of natural disaster. Local defence members and the RFS always work together so well, which is why I’m really pleased to see the lease agreement extended. Whether fire, flood or storms, our defence members and emergency services play a crucial role in keeping our South Coast community safe.”

This extended lease underscores the Federal Government’s commitment to national resilience and preparedness, ensuring that NSW RFS has the necessary resources and infrastructure to respond effectively to future natural disasters.