Australian Government announces $150 million for national aerial firefighting

The Australian Government announced $150 million over three years to enhance national aerial firefighting capability. Federal Emergency Management Minister Kristy McBain made the announcement at the Hawkesbury base, highlighting the role of RAAF Base Richmond in fighting bushfires across eastern Australia. This funding supports the Commonwealth's contract for five C-130 air tankers to supplement the National Aerial Firefighting Centre's existing fleet of nearly 170 aircraft.

The investment increases the national capacity for aerial firefighting, allowing large air tankers to be deployed across NSW and the eastern seaboard. This capability is intended to help protect residents and ground crews during dangerous summer bushfire conditions.