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

Our first priority is keeping Australians safe, and we are working around the clock to help Australians who need it. I'm in touch with our partners in the region to engage in efforts to support Australians impacted by travel disruptions. Prime Minister Albanese spoke to the UAE president yesterday, and I also spoke to the UAE Foreign minister, who confirmed that the United Arab Emirates is working hard to facilitate flights, the first of which we have seen take off this morning headed for Sydney.

However, we have seen many flights cancelled and diverted as the situation on the ground and in the air changes. I want to say to Australians that we are engaging closely with airlines and the travel industry through what we know is a challenging period for many Australians. I continue to urge all Australians who are affected to ensure that they keep apprised of the information and travel advice.