Defence will support the Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade (DFAT) led Australian Government response to the earthquake in Nepal under Operation Nepal Assist.
Defence is providing a RAAF C-17A Globemaster III aircraft to deliver Humanitarian and Disaster Relief (HADR) stores. The C-17A will also be used to evacuate Australian citizens and approved foreign nationals from Kathmandu to Bangkok.
A small number of Defence personnel will support DFAT staff in Kathmandu.
The RAAF C-17A aircraft is currently being prepared to depart from RAAF Base Amberley. Departure timings will be determined by availability of airport access in Kathmandu.
Defence stands ready to provide additional support as directed by the Australian Government.
Our thoughts and prayers are with those who are suffering as a result of this earthquake.