Tony Zappia (Makin, Australian Labor Party) Share this | Link to this | Hansard source

The situation in Afghanistan is both horrific and tragic. People, including children, women and the elderly, are desperately fleeing Afghanistan, or attempting to flee, in fear of their lives. They are pleading for help from the rest of the world. Here in Australia, members of Australia's Afghan community hold grave concerns for their loved ones, family members and friends stranded in Afghanistan. By all accounts, including views of people with military experience, the withdrawal of allied forces from Afghanistan has been poorly executed, leaving vulnerable Afghan people at the mercy of the Taliban and other rogue forces. Afghan people who in any way assisted the allied forces, and minority groups, including the Hazara people, are particularly at risk.

Prime Minister Morrison's response to this terrible humanitarian crisis has, to date, been inadequate, uncompassionate and apathetic. People's lives hang in the balance. I call on the Morrison government to urgently do all that is humanly possible to ensure the safety of vulnerable people in Afghanistan. This is not the time for political spin, procrastination, empty statements or weasel words. It is a moment in time when political leadership is vital, but it is sadly lacking in the Morrison government.