THE HON WARREN SNOWDON MP
Minister for Indigenous Health, Rural and Regional Health
and Regional Services Delivery
14 September 2009
NEW ROYAL FLYING DOCTOR PLANE
READY TO SERVE AUSTRALIA
The Royal Flying Doctor Service (RFDS) in South Eastern Australia has been strengthened
by a new Beechcraft King Air B200, purchased with the assistance of $3.7 million Federal
Government funding.
Launched by the Minister for Rural and Regional Health, Warren Snowdon, at Canberra
Airport today, the twin engine plane will significantly enhance patient care and comfort, and
its new medical fit out will be a boost to the vital life-saving work of the RFDS.
Based at Dubbo, it is one of three new Federal Government funded aircraft for the RFDS
South Eastern Section to service New South Wales, regional Victoria, Tasmania, south west
Queensland and northern South Australia.
Mr Snowdon said the Federal Government’s contribution to the aircraft is part of more than
$38 million over four years for the RFDS South Eastern Section, and $247 million for the
RFDS nationally.
“This significant Government funding helps ensure emergency aero-medical evacuation and
primary health care services to people living in rural and remote Australia.
“It also assists with the purchase of aircraft, more equipment and the refurbishment of
buildings and hangars,” Mr Snowdon said.
“The vision of RFDS founder, the Reverend John Flynn, to provide ‘a mantle of safety’ for
the courageous pioneers of inland Australia, has the full commitment of this Government.
“The Australian health system is struggling with changing demographics and burgeoning
chronic disease, but as the Rudd Government begins the necessary process of reform, the
RFDS remains a critical part of health service delivery to rural and remote Australia.
“For over eighty years the Royal Flying Doctor Service has given those in remote and
isolated areas medical support and this Government is committed to ensuring this continues.”
Media contact: Kate Sieper 02 6277 7630 and 0488 484 689.
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