Communities across rural and regional NSW have been given their first look at designs for new regional helicopter bases, as part of a planned expansion of the state’s aeromedical network.
Moruya and Wagga Wagga will be the first of the new regional ambulance helicopter bases to be delivered and are planned to be located at local airports, while planning for a helicopter base at Port Macquarie is progressing.
The new bases in Moruya, Wagga Wagga and Port Macquarie form part of the NSW Government’s $63.95 million investment in new regional helicopter ambulance infrastructure, supporting the expansion of the statewide aeromedical network from six to nine bases.
“The expanded network will help NSW Ambulance helicopters and world class paramedics and doctors provide faster access to lifesaving emergency and specialist care for regional communities,” said Minister for Regional Health, Ryan Park.
“We are delivering the essential health infrastructure needed to deliver better, faster care for people across NSW. This includes more hospitals, more beds, more ambulance stations and helicopter bases, and the staff to run them.”
Across the state, NSW Ambulance Aeromedical teams complete more than 4,400 helicopter missions each year. The expanded network will strengthen NSW’s emergency response to medical emergencies, motor vehicle accidents and natural disasters, while improving equitable access to emergency healthcare for rural, regional and remote communities.
The regional helicopter bases will include:
- a dedicated helicopter hangar and maintenance facilities
- mission-planning and operational workspaces
- training and staff amenities
- fuel, logistics and supporting infrastructure
- a dedicated road retrieval ambulance
“Our aeromedical teams provide emergency retrieval and critical care across some of the most challenging environments in NSW,” said NSW Ambulance Executive Director Aeromedical and Special Operations, Sarah Coombes.
“These bases will enhance the facilities and infrastructure our teams need to continue delivering high-quality critical care across rural and regional communities.”
Construction at Moruya and Wagga Wagga is expected to start in early 2027, following planning approval and the appointment of a building contractor.
The new bases will join the existing NSW Ambulance aeromedical network of 13 helicopters and six bases located in Bankstown (Sydney), Wollongong, Orange, Belmont (Newcastle), Lismore and Tamworth.
