Multiple sources say it has become difficult to find and retain pilots because of the attraction of better air ambulance pay rates interstate and the lure of commercial work.
Worth pointing out this is commercial work. It is a government contract operated for profit by Pel Air to provide a service. So if they aren’t paying enough to retain qualified staff they need to pay more money. They should not now be trying to make out like they’re a charity because they don’t won’t to pay market salary.