Penny Wong (SA, Australian Labor Party, Minister for Foreign Affairs) Share this | Hansard source

Firstly, in relation to the Gaza flotilla, I would actually say to the senator that people from the Australian Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade worked very hard to support the Australians who were detained in Israel. We had diplomats travel to Ketziot multiple times, conducting in-person visits and welfare checks. Our officials did as we requested, which was to advocate to the Israeli authorities on behalf of Australians and provide updates to detainee families. Officials also worked with Israeli authorities to ensure the release and deportation of Australians, and they continued to provide consular assistance.

In relation to the flotilla, we do understand that people want to help deliver aid to those suffering in Gaza. We also want to see critical aid delivered. However, the government has warned against attempts to breach the naval blockade because of the risks to the safety of Australians. In relation to the humanitarian crisis, as you would know, Australia has committed more than $130 million in humanitarian assistance to civilians in Gaza and Lebanon since 7 October 2023. I am aware there have been allegations of mistreatment. We have made clear to Israel our expectation that detainees will receive humane treatment in line with international norms. We have raised the welfare and treatment of Australians who are detained with Israel, both in Tel Aviv and in Canberra. Obviously and as you would know—I think you asked me this question in estimates, Senator, where I suspect I gave you the same answer—we are always constrained in relation to specific individuals because of our privacy obligations.