Flying Doctor Day
Flying Doctor Day marks the anniversary of the first Royal Flying Doctor Service flight back in 1928. A lot has changed over nearly 100 years, but what hasn’t, is the commitment made by our team of doctors, nurses, pilots and RFDS support crews who provide emergency aeromedical and essential primary health care each and every day.
This year we’re on a mission to raise $1.6 million by Thursday 14 May. Your donation will support the 274 aviation, clinical and ground crew team members who will embark on 4,442 hours of training to operate the new PC-12 PRO aircraft joining our fleet. Equipped with the latest safety and flight technology, the new aircraft will ensure we can continue to bridge time and distance in providing life-saving heath care to those who work, live and travel in regional and remote WA. Every dollar you donate on or before 14 May will be DOUBLED thanks to our generous matched giving partners. That means every dollar will have TWICE the impact for our service.
We’re calling on all Western Australians to support the vital service we provide to all corners of the state by donating on or before 14 May. Your donation will make a lasting impact to the more than 16,000 patients we provide care to each year.
Ways to support us this Flying Doctor Day
Make a donation
Your donation this Flying Doctor Day will help provide specialised training for our crew so they can continue to bridge time and distance in our new PC-12 PRO aircraft. Help us meet our $1.6 million target.
Become a fundraising champion
Become a Flying Doctor Day Champion and rally your community to support the RFDS. Individuals, workplaces, schools and community groups can become champions by making a donation or hosting a fundraising activity.
Matched Giving Partners
Every dollar donated on or before 15 May will be doubled thanks to our incredible matched giving partners, CBH Group, Hancock Iron Ore, Westgold, Greatland Resources, Regis Resources and Sandfire. Enquire about becoming a Matched Giving Partner with our team at partner@rfdswa.com.au
Join our Schools Program
We’re excited to invite schools from around Western Australia to take part in our RFDS WA Schools Program, proudly supported by CBH Group.
The history behind Flying Doctor Day
Flying Doctor Day marks the anniversary of the first RFDS flight, on 17 May 1928. In 2026, the RFDS will celebrate 98 years of proudly providing emergency aeromedical and essential health care services to the Australian community. Find out more about the beginnings of our service here.
The history of Flying Doctor DayIf you have any questions, or want to know more about Flying Doctor Day, visit our frequently asked questions page below.
