PM Offers Reassurance to Aussies Trapped by New Caledonia Violence

‘The Air Force have been on stand-by for the last 48 hours ... but the airport is closed,’ the Anthony Albanese said.

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. Delphine Mayeur /AFP via Getty Images

Prime Minister Anthony Albanese has characterised his government’s support for Australians stranded in New Caledonia as “amongst, certainly equal to, anywhere in the world.”

However, the leader admitted the Australian Defence Force could not evacuate anyone until authorities on the island declared the airport open.