Daniel Mulino (Fraser, Australian Labor Party) Share this | Hansard source

I rise to extend my condolences to all those affected by the earthquakes in Turkiye, Syria and across that region. The images of collapsed buildings, victims being pulled from the rubble and grief-stricken family members watching on in despair are truly shattering to see. With the death toll in the region now exceeding 11,000 people, the Albanese government has committed $10 million in aid to help those in that region. In addition to this, the government has deployed an urban search and rescue specialist team to assist Turkish authorities. By the end of this week there will be up to 72 personnel to help locate and remove and deliver medical assistance to victims.

I have been moved by the community response and it is heartening to see that many Australians have been donating to the relief effort. This week, 20 community organisations formed a crisis coordination committee to assist in organising the various aid that is being organised around the country, and I am proud that the migrant resource centre located in my state electoral district of St Albans is playing a leading role in that committee. The people in the migrant resource centre who are leading that effort are often volunteers who are putting in considerable amounts of time and energy. Thank you for your efforts. Again, my condolences go to all those affected.

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