Australia deploys troops to Afghanistan to evacuate Aussie citizens

Hundreds of troops are being deployed on an urgent mission to evacuate Australian citizens from Afghanistan, with more details revealed.

More than 250 Australian defence troops will be deployed to Afghanistan to help efforts to evacuate and rescue Aussie citizens and visa holders.

Approved by Cabinet’s National Security Committee on Monday, the Australian Defence Force (ADF) said defence personnel began departing Australia on Monday to support the Australian government’s efforts in evacuating Aussies.

“A KC-30A departed Amberley today for Australia’s main operating base in the Middle East and will commence refuelling operations in support of the wider US-led operation later this week,” the ADF said in a statement on Monday.

“Two C-17A Globemasters will also depart for the Middle East later this week.”

The last of Australia’s diplomats and defence personnel left the country in June but there are more than 130 Australians still within the capital, Kabul.

Foreign Minister Marise Payne said those Australians mostly worked for the United Nations and non-government organisations but “we are working to bring them and their families home”. A number of Afghans who worked with the ADF will also be evacuated but the number remains unclear.

It is also unclear when the planes could land in Afghanistan, with Ms Payne telling Sky the Australian military planes won’t land until it is deemed safe enough to do so and the situation allows.

“To ensure that we are able to support those Australians to leave in a safe and orderly way,” she said.

A contingent of Air Force and Army personnel board a waiting KC-30A Multi-Role Tanker Transport aircraft at RAAF Base Amberley bound for the Middle East to support evacuation efforts in Afghanistan. Picture: ADF CPL Brett Sherriff

The ADF said the mission will be constantly assessed against the latest developments.

“The situation in Afghanistan remains highly volatile and dangerous,” it said.

“Defence is taking all necessary precautions to protect its people and those authorised for evacuation.

Prime Minister Scott Morrison said the situation on the ground in Kabul was evolving rapidly.

“As in any crisis situation, the Australian government’s priority is to ensure the safety of its citizens,” he said.

“We have over 130 Australians in Afghanistan, working in the UN, NGOs, and elsewhere, and we are working to bring them and their families home.

“We are also assisting those who have been granted humanitarian visas, and others who are in the process of applying for protection.”

The Australian government was “deeply concerned” at the potential for further life and suffering.

The ADF said its evacuation efforts were being closely co-ordinated with international partners.