The Tasmanian government has awarded a 12-year, $354 million contract for emergency aviation services to mainland company StarFlight, marking the end of a 25-year partnership with local operator Rotor-Lift. The decision follows a lengthy tender process and has left Rotor-Lift’s owner, Allana Corbin, “devastated” by the outcome.
StarFlight will take over in January 2026, providing services that include search and rescue, medical evacuations, and law enforcement support. Health Secretary Dale Webster emphasized the new contract’s value, highlighting the introduction of advanced technology and capabilities, such as winching stretchers from the ground, which were previously unavailable.
Rotor-Lift’s Legacy and Response
Rotor-Lift, established in 1991, evolved from a helicopter sales and maintenance company to a key provider of emergency services in Tasmania. Allana Corbin, the managing director, expressed deep disappointment, describing the loss as a “very sad day” for the company and its 37 employees. “After 25 years of service to the community, it’s the end of our contract, which is devastating to all of us,” she stated.
Corbin criticized the tender process, claiming it was “very poorly executed” and that Rotor-Lift was not consulted. She argued that maintaining their current operations would cost the government $200 million, significantly less than the new contract’s terms. “We’ve provided a Versace service at a Kmart price,” she remarked, questioning the need for immediate upgrades given the state’s financial challenges.
The Transition to StarFlight
StarFlight, Australia’s largest aeromedical service, plans to enhance Tasmania’s emergency response capabilities. Director Jim Elder assured that the company would bring in new aircraft and personnel while exploring training opportunities and apprenticeships locally. “Our commitment to Tasmania is to make sure all Tasmanians get the service and opportunity that they deserve,” Elder said.
Negotiations are ongoing for a new state government-run aerobase at Cambridge aerodrome, with a proposed lease price of around $2.1 million annually. This facility is intended to ensure continuity of services beyond the current contract term.
Implications for Local Employment and Services
The transition raises concerns about employment for Rotor-Lift’s staff. Elder confirmed that StarFlight would consider current employees for new roles, aiming to utilize local expertise. Meanwhile, Acting Tasmania Police Commissioner Jonathan Higgins praised the enhanced capabilities of the new helicopters, which will aid in search and rescue operations and aerial law enforcement.
“Using the infrared cameras to better find those missing walkers that we seem to have quite regularly here in Tasmania now,” Higgins noted, emphasizing the benefits of the upgraded technology.
The shift in service providers represents a significant change in Tasmania’s emergency response landscape. While the government stresses the benefits of increased capability and value for money, the transition’s impact on local businesses and employees remains a sensitive issue.
As the new contract takes effect in 2026, both Rotor-Lift and StarFlight will navigate the challenges and opportunities of this pivotal change. The community will closely watch how these developments unfold, particularly in terms of service effectiveness and economic implications for the region.
