Since the early days, transportation has been an integral part of Australian Antarctic supply operations to support scientific programs. Ships allowed the transportation of personnel and building supplies to the establish stations on the Antarctic continent.

Initially, intra-continental travel was undertaken on sledges pulled by dog teams, and supported by fixed-wing aircraft to increase the range and efficiency of mapping and surveying activities.

In later years, mechanised transport was used for remote, long-range, travel in the field. Remote field programs today are still supported by fixed-wing aircraft and helicopters.