Prime Minister Attempts to Comfort Australians Stranded in New Caledonia Amid Escalating Violence
Prime Minister Anthony Albanese has described the Australian Air Force as being on stand-by for the past 48 hours, ready to assist in evacuating Australians stranded in New Caledonia. However, he noted that the airport remains closed, preventing any evacuations until local authorities declare it open.
The situation in New Caledonia has escalated, with six fatalities and numerous injuries resulting from violent clashes following peaceful protests against a French government proposal. The Australian consulate in Noumea has shut down, leaving over 300 citizens stranded without assistance.
While the Prime Minister acknowledged the consulate’s closure, he highlighted Australia’s 24-hour consular emergency center. The consulate’s website confirms its temporary closure and provides instructions for citizens needing urgent assistance.
French forces have begun clearing barricades along a major road near the airport, but debris removal is ongoing, delaying the airport’s reopening. The airport closure has affected travel routes to various destinations, including Australia, Singapore, and New Zealand.
Tonia Scholes, an Australian citizen in Noumea, described the chaotic and tense situation on the ground, with locals taking up vigilante measures to ensure their security. Meanwhile, reliable information on evacuation options from the Australian government has been scarce.
The New Zealand Defence Force is also prepared to assist in repatriating New Zealanders stuck in New Caledonia, pending approval from French authorities. Collaboration between Australia and New Zealand is underway to facilitate the safe return of stranded citizens.
