AUSTRALIAN GOVERNMENT PROVIDES ASSISTANCE IN RESPONSE TO NSW BUSHFIRES
20 November 2009
Attorney-General, Robert McClelland today approved assistance to New South Wales under the Australian Government Disaster Response Plan which is managed by Emergency Management Australia.
New South Wales is currently experiencing Severe to Catastrophic fire conditions across the State, with twelve bushfire emergencies declared by the Commissioner for the Rural Fire Service.
The New South Wales Government made a request to use Richmond Royal Australian Air Force Base for logistical support to assist in the aerial firefighting efforts. The Attorney-General has approved the request.
“Bankstown Airport has been deemed unsuitable due to the large amount of aviation traffic and distance from the fire grounds, so the Australian Government is happy to assist in any way we can,” Mr McClelland said.
The Rural Fire Service currently has 45 aircraft active across the State with an additional 22 aircraft on standby.
Aviation operations are expected to continue for up to fourteen (14) days pending containment of the fires.
Media Contact: Daniel Gleeson 0409 562 425
