The federal government has received the green light to send two evacuation flights to New Caledonia to bring Australians home after rioting engulfed the French territory.
Six people have died in the rioting that began last week, while the country’s international airport has also been shut down.
Foreign Minister Penny Wong had previously said the Australian Defence Force was ready to fly to the Pacific archipelago to pick up any Australians wanting to leave, and today announced the government had received the go-ahead for the repatriation flights.
“We’ve received clearance for two Australian government assisted-departure flights today for Australian and other tourists to depart New Caledonia,” she said.
“The Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade is contacting registered Australians. Passengers are being prioritised based on need.
“We continue to work on further flights.”
Any Australians in New Caledonia who wish to leave have been encouraged to register with DFAT.
About 300 have already registered as of yesterday.
