Anthony Albanese (Grayndler, Australian Labor Party, Prime Minister) Share this | Hansard source

Australia stands with the brave people of Iran in their struggle against what is an oppressive regime. The Iranian regime has directed attacks on Australian soil and has brought death, destruction and chaos on its neighbours for decades. While Australia's not directly involved in current military strikes, we've been clear of our utter rejection of the brutal Iranian regime. We are concerned about regional escalation and the protection of civilians, and we note the public statement just put out by the Gulf States and the United States of America. Australian officials are closely monitoring the evolving situation. We support the US acting to prevent Iran from obtaining a nuclear weapon and to prevent Iran from continuing to threaten international peace and security, and we support the Iranian people being allowed to determine their own future.

Our first priority is the safety is the safety of Australians in the region. We understand how distressing and challenging this time is, and we will do all that we can to provide you with information and to support you. We continue to advise Australians not to travel to Iran and to leave as soon as possible if it is safe to do so. Our ability to provide consular assistance in Iran is extremely limited due to the correct decision that we made to expel the Iranian ambassador and close our embassy in Tehran after the evidence of the IRGC's involvement in terrorist attacks on Australian soil.

Given our concerns around security in the region, we've also upgraded Australia's travel advice to 'do not travel' for Israel, Lebanon, Bahrain, Kuwait, Qatar and the UAE. Australians should leave now if it is safe to do so. The Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade has activated its crisis centre to provide consular support to Australians in the region. The registration portal is now open for Australians seeking assistance in Israel, Iran, the UAE and Qatar. Travellers should prioritise their safety, monitor events and follow local advice. Australians requiring consular assistance can contact the Consular Emergency Centre 24/7 on 1300555135 in Australia or, if they're outside Australia, on +61262613305.

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