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

I am advised that, as you said, Senator, a small number of commercial flights to other destinations were able to depart overnight. However, the unfortunate reality is that an immediate resolution to this situation is unlikely. Many Australians are also having issues with travellers insurance claims and exclusions in their policies for conflict situations. Australians are looking to their insurance providers for certainty in uncertain times. I'm pleased that the Assistant Treasurer has been working closely with insurance providers through this crisis, and we welcome the Insurance Council of Australia today declaring the conflict in the Middle East a significant event. The government will continue to press Australia's insurers to do the right thing by Australians who are facing disruption. Our priority, as I have said, is keeping Australians safe. We have activated the crisis centre and opened a registration portal for Australians in Israel, Iran, the UAE and Qatar, and we urge Australians to follow Smartraveller for the latest advice.