Eric Abetz (Tasmania, Liberal Party, Shadow Minister for Employment and Workplace Relations) Share this | Hansard source

by leave—The coalition joins with the government in extending its sympathies to the families, friends and colleagues who have lost loved ones, friends and mates today in Kandahar province in what appears to be the result of an accident rather than enemy action. Our condolences go especially to the Australians but also the families, friends and colleagues of our coalition partners who have also lost a loved one. This tragic incident regrettably comes close on the deaths of Sappers Darren Smith and Jacob Moerland, whom we have only just recently laid to rest. We as a nation are greatly indebted to the willingness of our servicemen and servicewomen to serve in the cause of freedom. In serving they know the risks and they self-sacrificially are prepared to take the risks for our wellbeing as a nation and those of us who support freedom more generally in other parts of the world.

On behalf of the coalition, can I say that we join with the government in expressing our condolences to the families, friends and mates who have lost loved ones. Can I also on behalf of the coalition indicate our very best wishes for the medical teams that have to deal with this tragedy, and especially express our best wishes to those who are injured, both Australian and non-Australian personnel. Our thoughts and prayers are especially with those two who are very seriously injured.

We as a nation can be very thankful that there are young men and women willing to sacrifice their lives in the cause of freedom, and especially for our freedom. Often it comes with a price and today we are reminded of that price, and that is a price that we as a nation ought to bear together, along with the families in particular and the friends who have lost loved ones. I join with the government in its comments on this matter.