Australia pledges $5 million in aid after deadly Nepal-Tibet flood

Australia is releasing $5 million in humanitarian assistance to aid disaster recovery in the Himalayas after a devastating flood impacted Nepal and Tibet. The federal government's commitment aims to provide crucial support to those affected by the deadly event.

Foreign Minister Penny Wong confirmed that at least 39 Australians are among those missing following the flood. She stated that Australian officials are working urgently to confirm the welfare of all unaccounted for citizens and to provide necessary assistance. The Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade is managing 43 consular cases related to the incident.

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We are urgently working to identify how many Australians have been in the region and to confirm the welfare of any Australians who are not accounted for.

Wong expressed concern, noting the "unfortunate possibility" that the number of missing Australians could increase. The government is actively working to identify all Australians who were in the region and to ascertain their well-being. The aid package is designated to provide essential resources, including food, emergency shelter, clean water, sanitation facilities, and medical support.

In addition to financial aid, Australia is deploying an initial team of three humanitarian response specialists to the region within 48 hours. These specialists will bolster the efforts of Australian staff already on the ground, enhancing the capacity to manage the crisis and support recovery operations. The situation remains a focus for the Australian government as they work to account for their citizens and assist in relief efforts.

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Australian officials are working to urgently confirm their welfare and provide assistance to those affected.