Joe Ludwig (Queensland, Australian Labor Party, Manager of Government Business in the Senate) Share this | Hansard source

The government supports this motion. I rise today to acknowledge the terrible tragedy that occurred on 15 December last year when the vessel known as SIEV221 succumbed to very rough seas and sank just off the coast of Christmas Island. At least 30 people died that day, along with an unknown number who are missing and presumed dead. Remarkably, and owing to the bravery of the Border Protection Command and Christmas Island residents themselves, 42 people survived the wreck—41 who were rescued from the water and one man who managed to swim ashore. Today, with great sadness and respect, we acknowledge the men, women and children who lost their lives in this tragic accident, express our sincere sympathy and condolences to their families and friends and pay tribute to the courageous men and women who assisted with the rescue efforts. I thank the Senate.