Fraser Coast Regional Council has renewed and expanded its support for three key emergency services – the Royal Flying Doctor Service (RFDS), LifeFlight, and local Rural Fire Brigades.
At their Wednesday 10 December, the Council approved new contribution agreements that will provide ongoing funding and waive airport landing fees for RFDS and LifeFlight.
Mayor George Seymour said the decision recognised the vital role these services play in keeping Fraser Coast residents safe.
“From bushfires to medical emergencies, these organisations are there for our community on some of the toughest days people will ever face,” he said.
“Rural Fire Brigades carry out important work such as hazard reduction burns, fire prevention and community education, as well as responding to bushfires and other emergencies. They are powered by volunteers who give their time and skills to protect lives, homes and the environment.
“LifeFlight and the Royal Flying Doctor Service provide critical helicopter and plane services that bring medical care to people and, when needed, fly them quickly to larger hospitals. That is especially important for people living in rural and regional areas.
“By committing this funding, Council is helping make sure these services can continue to respond quickly and effectively when our community needs them most.”
Under the resolutions passed today, Council will: Provide a one-year contribution of $265,000 in 2025/26 to the Rural Fire Service Queensland (via the Queensland Fire Department) to support Rural Fire Brigades on the Fraser Coast.
Enter into three-year agreements with the Royal Flying Doctor Service and LifeFlight Foundation Ltd for 2025/26, 2026/27 and 2027/28, which include waiving airport landing fees and providing an annual contribution of $30,000 to each service.
The council has also welcomed the State Government’s recent increase in funding for Rural Fire Service Queensland, with Council’s future contributions to Rural Fire Brigades to be reviewed each year as part of the annual budget process.
Cr Seymour said the support is fully funded through Council’s Disaster Management and Resilience Levy on all rateable properties.
“This levy is one of the practical ways our community invests in its own safety and resilience,” he said.
“Our support for RFDS, LifeFlight and the Rural Fire Brigades reflects Council’s deep appreciation for their tireless work and our ongoing commitment to building a safer, more resilient Fraser Coast.”
