How many helicopters have been rescued in Australia?

Helping to keep Australians safe since 1973 Today there are 13 bases operating 15 aircraft and 1 rescue boat across Australia.

Who pays for helicopter rescue in Australia?

The service is managed by DFES and funded by the State Government and sponsored by RAC. The State Government highly values the service and provides more than $5 million in funding annually.

How much does it cost to be rescued by helicopter in Australia?

Around Australia, the average minimum cost of a road ambulance is around $1,000 and it’s not unusual for the costs of a medical helicopter evacuation to be upwards of $10,000.

Is the Westpac Rescue Helicopter free?

As with each of the 13 Westpac Lifesaver Rescue Helicopter bases across Australia, the Queensland services out the Carrara base is a free community service; no one has ever been charged to be rescued.

Who pays for helicopter rescue in Tasmania?

Funding for the Westpac Rescue Helicopter is provided by the State government through the recurrent budget of the Department of Health. This is provided on the basis that funding for specialist equipment and advanced training is sought through sponsorship and the Tasmanian community.

How many helicopters can you rescue in NSW?

In New South Wales, there are five operation bases and a total of six rescue aircraft. Westpac 1, 2, 3, 4 are spread across 3 bases; Lake Macquarie Airport Newcastle, Tamworth Airport, Lismore Airport.

How many helicopters can you rescue in WA?

two
The Emergency Rescue Helicopter Service, known as RAC Rescue, provides two dedicated emergency rescue helicopters serving Western Australia. St John Ambulance supports the role of RAC Rescue by providing critical care paramedics on board and fielding emergency calls through the State Operations Centre.

How much does a medical helicopter cost in Australia?

It can cost up to $4898 for an air ambulance and up to $10,475 for a helicopter, with prices set by the Department of Health and Human Services. In comparison, South Australians are charged $934 for emergency call-out fees and Western Australia $932 for life threatening or urgent related incidents.

Is rescue free in Australia?

If your rescue involves an ambulance or air ambulance evacuation, this service is not free and could involve charges from several hundred dollars to several thousand, unless you have appropriate insurance. Costs vary from state to state.

Do you have to pay to be rescued by the Coast Guard?

A Coast Guard spokeswoman said they don’t charge because rescues are a part of what they do. SAR insurance just might save your bank account if you get in a pickle in the mountains (or the desert, or the ocean, or…).

How much does a rescue helicopter cost per hour?

The AW139’s cost $1,000 per hour in fuel, $1,000 per hour to run the engine, $1,500 for the airframe and for $500 avionics, that’s a total of $4,000 per hour.

Is search and rescue free in Australia?

Costs vary from state to state. Your private health insurance may cover the cost in Australia, depending on the level of cover. If you are travelling overseas it is essential to carry travel insurance to cover ambulance and medical repatriation, which could cost tens of thousands of dollars.