Anthony Albanese (Grayndler, Australian Labor Party, Prime Minister) Share this | Hansard source

The government is closely monitoring the situation in New Caledonia. DFAT's Smartraveller advice has been updated: that Australians in Noumea are advised to 'exercise a high degree of caution due to protests and demonstrations'. Our consulate-general in Noumea is advising Australians in New Caledonia to minimise movement, monitor the media and follow the advice of local authorities. The Australian consulate-general in Noumea has been sharing this advice on social media, and we would encourage people who are there to continue to monitor that through those devices. Australians in need of consular assistance should contact the Australian government's 24-hour Consular Emergency Centre on 1300555135 within Australia or +61262613305 if they are calling from overseas.

Australia values very much our relationship with both New Caledonia and the French state. We respect and support the referendum process under the Noumea Accord and the discussions underway between all parties. I would encourage, and the government encourages, all parties to work together constructively to shape New Caledonia's institutional future. I thank the House for the opportunity for that update.

See this speech in context