ANNE STANLEY MP 
OPPOSITION WHIP 
MEMBER FOR WERRIWA

 STATEMENT: AFGHANISTAN CRISIS

The recent events in Afghanistan are heartbreaking. Particularly for the people of Afghanistan, the Australian-Afghan Communities and our veterans.

Today I am calling on the Government to do everything in its power, with its allies, to protect vulnerable Afghanis.

I am especially concerned about the Afghan civilians who worked alongside Australian soldiers and diplomats, who wore Australian uniforms and who kept our people safe. They now face increasing threats to their lives and the lives of their families because of the assistance they provided our nation.

I also fear for the women and children of Afghanistan who now face the prospect of a cruel and brutal regime.

Australia has a moral obligation to help people who have helped Australia and Australian service men and women. We have a national security obligation to make clear to the world that if you help Australia, we will help you.

For months Labor has been calling on the Federal Government to act urgently to get Afghans who supported Australian operation to safety.

As the humanitarian and security crisis in Afghanistan escalates, Australia must plan to fast-track vias and evacuations for families of Australian citizens. It is a shame that many of these people have been waiting years for partner and family visas.

Labor will always advocate for humanitarian aid in times of devastating security and humanitarian crisis.

I have written to the Minister for Foreign Affairs, Marise Payne, calling for the Federal Government to step in and do all they can to support the Afghani community in Australia, their families and our veterans.