Anthony Albanese (Grayndler, Australian Labor Party, Prime Minister) Share this | Link to 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.

Peter Dutton (Dickson, Liberal Party, Leader of the Opposition) Share this | Link to this | Hansard source

Just quickly, I thank the Prime Minister for his call earlier, before question time, to advise that he would be making a statement, and I lend support to the Prime Minister's very sage advice to those Australians to listen to and monitor the DFAT advice. These situation can move fluidly. To take early action that's in your best interests and your family's best interests is absolutely crucial, and we lend our support to the government's call in that regard.