The Department of Infrastructure, Regional Development and Cities operates a Remote Air Services Subsidy Scheme (RASS) which subsidises aircraft operators to provide flights to remote locations in Australia. The Scheme is conducted for the transportation of passengers where designated, and in almost all cases freight items such as fresh food, education material, medical supplies, veterinary supplies and machinery parts.
Throughout the year the Department issues Requests for Tender (RFT) for the provision of either freight or passenger services for a nominated remote location. As these contracts tend to be for a maximum of three years, opportunties for contract renewal appear frequently.
This week, two RFTs have been issued for air services under the RASS, one for freight services in the Channel Country of South Australia and Queensland, and the other for passenger services to Cape Barren Island Tasmania. Both opportunties close on the 23rd Feb 18, and an optional industry brief is being held in Adelaide on 31st Jan 18 to discuss the freight services RFT.
As would be expected, all tenderers must hold a CASA issued Air Operator’s Certificate (and Regular Public Transport certificate for passenger travel) at the time of lodging the tender.
Both opportunities are for a 2 year initial period, with the option to extend for an additional 12 months.If you are after specific advice on this or any other opportunity listed below, feel free to contact us.