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Defence is set to deploy approximately 700 personnel to support the recovery effort in flood-affected areas across NSW.
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The Australian Defence Force has established Operation NSW Flood Assist 21-1, as part of the Commonwealth government’s relief effort in response to the NSW floods emergency.
Working alongside NSW government-led authorities, the ADF is expected to provide aerial search and rescue support, conduct civilian evacuation operations, and prepare forces to assist in recovery operations.
Initially, 300 ADF personnel will be deployed to support relief efforts, with the force size to increase incrementally to 700.
Rotary wing aircraft, including three Army MRH-90 helicopters, are set to deploy from Sydney and Townsville, supporting the two ADF helicopters from HMAS Albatross currently complementing state search and rescue capabilities.
“Our men and women of the ADF have expertise and assets which will aid NSW in search and rescue efforts,” Minister for Agriculture, Drought and Emergency Management, David Littleproud said.
“When the immediate crisis has subsided, ADF capabilities and muscle will be key in helping communities recover.
“We are proud to be able to support NSW in this way.”
The acting Minister for Defence, Marise Payne, added, “Our thoughts are with those who have been impacted by these devastating floods in New South Wales.
“Substantial ADF capabilities are now preparing to join this operation over the coming days, expanding on the support that commenced on Tuesday.”
Minister Payne said that once the flood waters subside, the Army Emergency Support Force would assist with clearing debris, sandbagging, clean-up duties and the restoration of essential resources, including water and electricity.
“Once again our ADF personnel have stepped-up in Australia’s time of need, just like they did during the Black Summer bushfires and throughout the COVID-19 pandemic,” she said.
Earlier this week, RAAF Base Richmond commenced supporting the Rural Fire Service and State Emergency Service to evacuate residents from the Colo River region.
This support included:
- providing civilian aircraft with access to RAAF Base Richmond;
- air traffic control, aircraft handling and refuelling services; and
- escorting evacuees to evacuation centres.
As a result of this support, residents requiring immediate medical treatment were safely evacuated four separate flights.
[Related: Defence to support NSW flood efforts, MINDEF confirms]
