RAAF supporting civilian firefighter deployments

The Australian Defence Force is working with emergency services to support firefighting efforts in north-eastern New South Wales.

CAPTION: A RAAF C-130J Hercules loads South Australian fire fighting deploying to northern New South Wales. Photo by Corporal Bill Solomou.

Minister for Defence Linda Reynolds that last night a Royal Australian Air Force 737 Boeing Business Jet transported ACT Rural Fire Service firefighters from Canberra, and this morning a RAAF C-130J Hercules flew firefighters and equipment from Adelaide to Port Macquarie.

“I am focussed on ensuring the ADF is ready to provide additional support for the nation’s front line first responders,” Minister Reynolds said.

“Defence is also working with Emergency Management Australia to support further air transport requests and is identifying what other ADF capabilities can be used if requested.

“While our ADF personnel are not trained firefighters, they can provide other support at times of need.

“As the former Minister for Emergency Management, last bushfire season I saw first hand the devastating impact that natural disasters have on communities.

“I also saw how federal-government agencies work together to provide support for states and territories.

“I pay tribute to the emergency services personnel fighting these fires across the country, as well as the ADF personnel who support them.”

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