A Robinson R44: one of the types of helicopter that will be maintained by Helico Australia. Picture: ANDREW KACIMAIWAI
From trees to helicopters — the Victorian Government is subsidising a helicopter business’s expansion plans to help former timber workers land a job.
Under its Forestry Transition Fund, the government is giving $789,766 to Helico Australia, an Alexandra-based helicopter service business.
The money will go towards the construction of a $1.5m purpose-built maintenance facility and headquarters.
There will be large workshops with work bays for helicopter and engine tear-downs and rebuilds, a spare parts store, paint booths, sheet metal manufacturing and non-destructive testing.
There will also be a dedicated area for innovative engineering design and fabrication technologies.
Minister for Agriculture Ros Spence says the company is delivering future prosperity for the region and workers.
MP for Northern Victoria Jaclyn Symes says Helico Australia’s expansion has wider economic benefits apart from local jobs.
Helico Australia Director Hylke Kijlstra says the grant will allow them to build the facility.
“I am grateful to the Victorian Government for giving us this opportunity and investing in our community,” he says.
Helico plans to tap local tradespeople to build the new facility.
The company currently has 24 staff; with the new facilities, it is expected to take on extra staff in roles ranging from engineers to hangar and grounds staff and trainees.
Helico Australia services and rebuilds Robinson helicopters that are used by the agricultural and resources industries in northern Australia for stock mustering and transport, as well as the delivery of supplies during the wet season.
NEW FUNDING ROUND
Round 2 of the Forestry Transition Fund, which supports job creation and business development in and around communities impacted by the end of native timber harvesting, is now open.
A $20,000 employment incentive payment for the employment of ex-native timber workers is also available.
Applications close on October 31, 2025.
For details, visit deeca.vic.gov.au/forestry or call 1800 318 182.
