Defence on Standby to Rescue Australians Trapped in New Caledonia

Foreign Affairs Minister Penny Wong says the defence force is ’ready to fly' once local authorities advise it is safe to use the airport.

Gendarmerie armoured vehicles are seen near a police station in Noumea, France's Pacific territory of New Caledonia, on May 18, 2024. Hundreds of French security personnel tried to restore order in the Pacific island territory of New Caledonia on May 18, after a fifth night of riots, looting and unrest. (Photo by Delphine Mayeur / AFP) Photo by DELPHINE MAYEUR/AFP via Getty Images

As soon as French authorities advise the airport in Nouméa is safe, Australian Defence Force (ADF) personnel will be deployed to New Caledonia to help evacuate the estimated 300 Australians trapped there by over a week of violence, Foreign Minister Penny Wong has said.

Six people—all believed to be locals—have been killed so far in the French-ruled Pacific Island territory during rioting that was sparked by French government plans to reform the territory’s elections, reducing the likelihood of a future majority in favour of independence.