The Queensland Police Service (QPS) has extended its partnership with Surf Life Saving Queensland for the supply of POLAIR helicopter services.
The partnership will now continue until 1 July 2024 and is supported by a 10-year Government funding commitment to POLAIR services for the QPS.
Minister for Police, Mark Ryan said the QPS was now in a position to begin a formal tender process with a registration of interest opportunity opening by June.
Police Commissioner Katarina Carroll said POLAIR helicopters were available for tasking 24 hours a day, seven days a week, 365 days a year.
“POLAIR has a strong reputation of supporting front-line police officers,” Commissioner Carroll said.
“It provides an airborne law enforcement capability which is most effective in densely-populated regions.
“With the capabilities of POLAIR and our dedicated tactical flight officers, POLAIR is delivering safety outcomes for officers and the community on a daily basis.”
She said the QPS would always deploy the best available police resources to support operations and enhance community safety.
Mr Ryan said the Government recognised the importance of funding an extension of the POLAIR service arrangements, in addition to supporting the ongoing allocation of three Government helicopters to north Queensland which were available for policing operations.
“I am told that the Government’s extended funding for POLAIR services means new helicopters will be procured to replace the existing aircraft,” Mr Ryan said.
