Canberra
A crash involving two Australian Defence Force (ADF) vehicles on Saturday left multiple personnel injured while providing community support in Lismore, New South Wales, following ex-Tropical Cyclone Alfred.
The Australian Defence Ministry confirmed the incident, stating, "The welfare of ADF members and their families is a priority, and Defence’s focus is on supporting those involved." The ministry noted that further updates would be provided as the situation develops.
According to the Australian Broadcasting Corporation (ABC), emergency services responded to the crash just after 5 p.m. local time. NSW Ambulance reported that 36 people sustained injuries, with three in serious condition.
Prime Minister Anthony Albanese and Deputy Prime Minister Richard Marles acknowledged the incident in a joint statement, confirming that some ADF personnel suffered severe injuries. Additionally, Albanese posted on X about a separate tragedy, where a man died in floodwaters near Dorrigo. "Our thoughts are with his loved ones and the community at this heartbreaking time," he wrote.
Authorities assured that medical assistance is being provided to those affected, emphasizing that this remains an ongoing situation.