Australia leads evacuation efforts and provides aid after devastating earthquake hits Vanuatu
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Australia has stepped in to assist with a significant evacuation effort following a powerful natural disaster that has devastated a Pacific island nation.
In the wake of the disaster, authorities have mobilised resources to bring affected citizens to safety, with many families seeking refuge from the aftermath of the catastrophic event.
As the situation unfolds, Australia's response highlights the ongoing commitment to providing aid and support to neighbouring nations in times of crisis.
The tranquillity of the South Pacific was shattered earlier this week when a powerful 7.3-magnitude earthquake struck Vanuatu, a small island nation known for its stunning landscapes and vibrant culture.
The quake, which has claimed at least 14 lives and affected an estimated 116,000 people, has left the country in a state of emergency, with the death toll expected to rise as rescue efforts continue.
In the wake of this natural disaster, scores of Australians who found themselves caught in the midst of chaos have now safely returned home, thanks to the swift action of the Royal Australian Air Force (RAAF).
The RAAF has successfully evacuated more than 148 Australian citizens, providing a silver lining to the otherwise grim situation.
Foreign Minister Penny Wong confirmed the evacuations, stating, ‘Overnight, 148 Australian citizens returned home on the two RAAF aircraft that delivered vital assistance to Vanuatu.’
‘We are helping Vanuatu to restore operations at the commercial airport.’
‘Additional assistance will be provided where possible, ahead of the airport reopening,’ she added.
The Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade (DFAT) confirmed on Wednesday evening, December 18, that Australian crisis teams had arrived in Vanuatu, working alongside local authorities to help rescue individuals trapped under collapsed buildings.
‘Australian emergency crews are now on the ground in Vanuatu following the devastating earthquake, Senator Wong said.
‘Search and rescue teams will be working with local authorities to assist those trapped in collapsed buildings.’
‘And an Australian Medical Assistance Team will help treat the injured,’ she continued.
The international community has taken note of the disaster, with reports confirming the deaths of two Chinese citizens and a French national.
France, in collaboration with Australia and New Zealand under the FRANZ trilateral disaster response pact, is coordinating efforts to aid Vanuatu.
Prime Minister Anthony Albanese announced an immediate $2 million response package, which includes a 64-person Disaster Assistance Response Team and two canines specialising in urban search and rescue operations.
An Australian Medical Assistance Team has also been sent, along with a five-person crisis response team from DFAT, a liaison officer from the National Emergency Management Agency, and an additional nine federal police officers, joining the six already stationed in Vanuatu.
For Australians still in Vanuatu or those concerned about loved ones, the government has provided an online registration system for receiving information and updates.
In cases of emergency, the 24-hour Consular Emergency Centre remains a critical lifeline for assistance at +61 2 6261 3305 from overseas or 1300 555 135 in Australia.
As Australia continues its response to the devastating earthquake in Vanuatu, the nation's focus on disaster preparedness and rescue efforts remains critical.
In addition to the ongoing evacuations and humanitarian aid, the need for advanced rescue vehicles has never been more apparent.
In NSW, a new fleet of rescue ambulances has been introduced, designed to withstand fires and floods, showcasing the importance of innovation in saving lives during emergencies.
Members, as we reflect on the situation in Vanuatu, let's consider our own preparedness for natural disasters. Have you reviewed your emergency plans recently? Do you know what to do in the event of an earthquake or other natural disaster? Share your thoughts and experiences in the comments below, and let's use this moment to remind ourselves of the importance of being ready for the unexpected.
In the wake of the disaster, authorities have mobilised resources to bring affected citizens to safety, with many families seeking refuge from the aftermath of the catastrophic event.
As the situation unfolds, Australia's response highlights the ongoing commitment to providing aid and support to neighbouring nations in times of crisis.
The tranquillity of the South Pacific was shattered earlier this week when a powerful 7.3-magnitude earthquake struck Vanuatu, a small island nation known for its stunning landscapes and vibrant culture.
The quake, which has claimed at least 14 lives and affected an estimated 116,000 people, has left the country in a state of emergency, with the death toll expected to rise as rescue efforts continue.
The Royal Australian Air Force evacuated over 148 Australians from earthquake-hit Vanuatu. Credit: Senator Penny Wong / X
In the wake of this natural disaster, scores of Australians who found themselves caught in the midst of chaos have now safely returned home, thanks to the swift action of the Royal Australian Air Force (RAAF).
The RAAF has successfully evacuated more than 148 Australian citizens, providing a silver lining to the otherwise grim situation.
Foreign Minister Penny Wong confirmed the evacuations, stating, ‘Overnight, 148 Australian citizens returned home on the two RAAF aircraft that delivered vital assistance to Vanuatu.’
‘We are helping Vanuatu to restore operations at the commercial airport.’
‘Additional assistance will be provided where possible, ahead of the airport reopening,’ she added.
The Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade (DFAT) confirmed on Wednesday evening, December 18, that Australian crisis teams had arrived in Vanuatu, working alongside local authorities to help rescue individuals trapped under collapsed buildings.
‘Australian emergency crews are now on the ground in Vanuatu following the devastating earthquake, Senator Wong said.
‘Search and rescue teams will be working with local authorities to assist those trapped in collapsed buildings.’
‘And an Australian Medical Assistance Team will help treat the injured,’ she continued.
The international community has taken note of the disaster, with reports confirming the deaths of two Chinese citizens and a French national.
France, in collaboration with Australia and New Zealand under the FRANZ trilateral disaster response pact, is coordinating efforts to aid Vanuatu.
Prime Minister Anthony Albanese announced an immediate $2 million response package, which includes a 64-person Disaster Assistance Response Team and two canines specialising in urban search and rescue operations.
An Australian Medical Assistance Team has also been sent, along with a five-person crisis response team from DFAT, a liaison officer from the National Emergency Management Agency, and an additional nine federal police officers, joining the six already stationed in Vanuatu.
For Australians still in Vanuatu or those concerned about loved ones, the government has provided an online registration system for receiving information and updates.
In cases of emergency, the 24-hour Consular Emergency Centre remains a critical lifeline for assistance at +61 2 6261 3305 from overseas or 1300 555 135 in Australia.
As Australia continues its response to the devastating earthquake in Vanuatu, the nation's focus on disaster preparedness and rescue efforts remains critical.
In addition to the ongoing evacuations and humanitarian aid, the need for advanced rescue vehicles has never been more apparent.
In NSW, a new fleet of rescue ambulances has been introduced, designed to withstand fires and floods, showcasing the importance of innovation in saving lives during emergencies.
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