Foreign Affairs Minister Penny Wong has confirmed that the number of Australians reported missing following the catastrophic floods in Nepal has risen from 35 to 39 overnight.
Government mobilises consular and humanitarian support
In a statement, Wong said the government was “rapidly mobilising consular and humanitarian support in response to the catastrophic floods along the Nepal-China border, including through a $5 million assistance package for affected communities.”
“We understand at least 39 Australians are among those reported missing. Australian officials are working urgently to confirm their welfare and provide assistance to those affected,” she added.
Humanitarian response team to deploy within 48 hours
Wong said the government would send an initial team of three humanitarian response specialists “within the next 48 hours” to help Australian staff already on the ground.
The announcement comes as rescue and relief efforts continue in the wake of the devastating floods, which have caused widespread destruction and displacement along the Nepal-China border region.
Challenges ahead for response and recovery
“The extraordinary scale of this disaster and the remoteness of the affected region mean immense challenges lie ahead for the response and recovery,” Wong said.
The Australian government is coordinating with international partners and local authorities to locate the missing Australians and deliver urgent assistance to affected communities.
