Aboriginal employment boost with new emergency operations centre at Adelaide Airport

Aboriginal employment and skills development are about to be boosted with leading aerospace consultancy Gunggandji Aerospace contracted to staff a new operations centre servicing SA’s emergency aerial fleet. 

Based at Adelaide airport, it’s part of the State Government’s $870 million investment in new fixed and rotary wing aircraft through its partnership with Toll Aviation.

Gunggandji and the Indigenous Defence and Infrastructure Consortium will provide staff for the state-of-the-art operations centre to be based at the Adelaide airport.

Gunggandji is Australia’s only fully Aboriginal-owned aerospace consultancy.

The innovative partnership between IDIC, Toll and the State Government marks its first entry into South Australia’s aviation sector.

The business expects to hire five FTEs, with Indigenous employment a priority.

Hiring for the new positions is set to commence in the New Year, ahead of the operations centre expected to go live in November 2026.

Gunggandji Aerospace is widely respected within the aviation sector, and its decision to expand its operations into South Australia will lead to exciting new pathways for Aboriginal South Australians keen to build their skills and embark on a career in the sector.

Quotes attributable to Rhiannon Pearce

“This is an exciting moment for South Australia, and for Aboriginal South Australians looking to build a career in the aviation sector.

 Our record investment in our emergency aerial fleet isn’t just about delivering contemporary, effective emergency response aircraft, it’s about helping people get the skills they need to support that fleet.

 Working with Gunggandji, and the IDIC and Toll Aviation to deliver this operations centre will ensure we have a top-notch crew on the ground working around the clock to support our aerial rescue efforts – and open up exciting new training opportunities to help South Australians get involved in this important sector.”

 Quotes attributable to Scott Watkins, Senior Vice President, Toll Aviation

 “This innovative partnership sets a new benchmark in the Aviation industry, providing a career pathway for Indigenous South Australians to be part of a critical Emergency Response service.

 Operational from November 2026, a full team recruited by Gunggandji and the IDIC, will be responsible for the day to day operations for the South Australian community.

 Toll’s commitment to innovation, safety, and operational excellence will be the cornerstone of the contract’s success, providing South Australia with a modern, reliable aviation service for years to come.”

 Quotes attributable to Daniel Joinbee, Managing Director, Gunggandji Aerospace

 “Today marks a significant milestone in the journey of Gunggandji Aerospace, as we proudly announce our new aviation employment alongside Toll Aviation and the South Australian Government.

 At the core of this partnership is opportunity for First Nations South Australians, to develop and strengthen their career in Australia’s aviation industry. As the aviation industry continues to grow and evolve, it is essential that we not only include Indigenous Australians but also ensure they are actively involved in driving that growth.

 This development will go on to have significant impact, on individuals, families and communities within South Australia, and we are proud to be a part of that generational change.”

CONTACT:

Jason Gillick, South Australian Government

Tel 0417 152 137