Australia is prepared to help and provide whatever support is appropriate to Greece, in the aftermath of its deadly wildfires, the Hon. Scott Morrison, the Treasurer of the Australian Government has announced.
Mr Morrison said “we are a country that is very familiar with the heartbreak and tragedy of fires. And as a country that also has one of the largest expatriate populations of Greek nationals of anywhere around the world, we deeply empathise with those who are caught up in these tragic fires in Greece. There will be many Australians I’m sure who have family members that may be affected.”
Prime Minister of Australia, Malcolm Turnbull also conveyed his condolences on twitter posting "Australia and Greece share a special relationship nurtured by strong family and community ties. A tragedy that affects Greece also affects Australia. My thoughts and those of all Australians are with the people of Greece at this tragic time."
Melbourne, a city in Australia, is home to one of the largest Greek populations outside of Greece. The Premier of Victoria, Daniel Andrews stated that “our hearts are breaking for the terrible tragedy in Greece”. He further added that it appears that there may be no need for Australian firefighters in Greece, but hopes that Victoria’s sadly gained expertise in identifying bushfire victims may be useful to Greek authorities.
Victoria’s Emergency Services Minister, James Merlino said the state had contacted Greek authorities and are ready to provide any assistance, whether that’s help in the emergency or in the recovery.
