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The funds are part of a $1.1 million pledge by Rio to support the communities close to its bauxite operations on the Gove Peninsula, and part of the company's US$25 million (A$38.72 million) COVID-19 global commitment.

The donation to CareFlight northern operations is Rio Tinto's first contribution in the territory.

CareFlight northern operations general manager Philip Roberts said Rio Tinto's contribution would allow it to bolster services during the current COVID-19 response and develop additional options to service the East Arnhem region.

"As the only aeromedical provider in the Top End, covering more than 600,000 square kilometres, it is critical we deliver equity in healthcare to all rural and remote residents, as well as our most vulnerable populations," he said.

CareFlight senior flight nurse and midwife Trudy Guiney said the greatest joy for her in working for CareFlight had been building relationships in the community and caring for the families in the region.

She said during times of uncertainty and taking loved ones across vast distances, trust and confidence really matters.

Rio Tinto Gove operations general manager Alysia Tringrove said the funding would help CareFlight continue to supply emergency care and other medical services to people in the East Arnhem region and the rest of the territory.