$15 million for the Royal Flying Doctor Service 

20 August 2026

The Royal Flying Doctor Service (RFDS) will receive $15 million from the NSW government to allow it to continue providing life-saving care to remote parts of the state, with discussions underway towards providing much-needed secure funding.  

This is the second $15 million funding injection for the RFDS, following last year. Member for Barwon, Roy Butler, is working with Health Minister Ryan Park on establishing longer-term funding that acknowledges the role played by the RFDS in the state’s health system.  

“We need to accept that the RFDS is an important arm of the state’s health system that extends health care into remote areas,” said Mr Butler. “For 90 years, the RFDS has relied mainly on private donations, but that is not sustainable with demand rising as people become older and sicker, while it becomes harder to recruit medical professionals. 

“Secure state funding would acknowledge that remote people deserve healthcare too, that distance should not be a barrier to care, and that the RFDS is best placed to deliver it efficiently and effectively. 

“I thank Health Minister Ryan Park for this funding and look forward to working with him on a sustainable funding stream for the RFDS in future,” said Mr Butler 

Healthcare in remote NSW demands a different approach than more populated areas, according to Greg Sam, RFDS CEO South Eastern Section. 

“The Flying Doctor was purpose-built for that challenge, combining aviation, healthcare and deep community connections to deliver care wherever it's needed,” said Mr Sam. "For nearly a century, we've developed the people, infrastructure and expertise needed to reach communities that would otherwise struggle to access care."  

“The RFDS is very grateful to Mr Butler for his years of tireless advocacy and unwavering support. Roy is a true champion for the communities he serves,” said Mr Sam.