"A patient's trust in their medical services is vital - particularly if they are living in locations that don't have easy access to the services enjoyed in our cities", said Frank Quinlan, RFDS Federation executive director.

"That we have earned this trust, in the provision of vital, emergency medical and primary health care services to rural and remote Australia, gives our 1900 staff great pride."

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The RFDS is part of Australia's broad national health system, and works closely with governments, industry, Aboriginal Medical Services, Primary Health Networks, Local Hospital Districts, GPs and rural and remote communities -- to keep Aussies healthy and safe.

"This Most Trusted Charity award is testament to these strong partnerships and relationships - particularly over the last 18 months which have been fraught with droughts, fires, floods and a global health pandemic," Mr Quinlan said.

"This also includes the wonderful ongoing efforts of first responders, local volunteers that clear and light dirt airstrips, long-serving custodians of medical chests, rural hosts for clinics, fundraisers and donors and much more.

"We thank them all for their tireless work to keep Aussies safe."

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