Services include the provision of aviation emergency response, first response medical treatment and extraction and round-the-clock recovery services.

Leveraging its workforce of approximately 50 employees, OPSTAR will be tasked with delivering aviation emergency response and land-based rescue services until mid-2023, with the option of two one-year extensions.

Minister for Defence Industry Melissa Price said the contract was a reflection of the strength of the defence industry across Nowra and the wider NSW South Coast region.

“OPSTAR has been instrumental in developing the search and rescue capability to prepare for a wide variety of potential incidents that may occur at HMAS Albatross and associated training areas,” Minister Price said.

“This contract will ensure that our Navy personnel receive crucial emergency response services if and when they need.

“It is further evidence of the Morrison government’s support of small and medium businesses in our defence industry.”

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Senator for NSW Jim Molan noted the significance of the investment in bolstering Australia’s sovereign defence capabilities and ensuring the safety of military personnel.

“The Morrison government is investing in the best possible capability for our defence industry, and it is great that a local business will be playing a leading role in search and rescue operations for Navy personnel in Nowra,” Senator Molan said.

“This contract will not only facilitate essential emergency response services, but also continue to support local jobs and support families in my electorate of Gilmore.”

[Related: Queensland defence company wins $319m contract for Army Combat Training Centre ]