Two soldiers die in defence vehicle rollover near Townsville

Two ADF personnel have been killed in a defence vehicle crash near Townsville, Defence Minister tells parliament.

Defence Minister Peter Dutton Picture: NCA NewsWire / Gary Ramage

Two soldiers have died after their vehicle rolled near Townsville, as Defence Minister Peter Dutton describes their deaths as “very sad news for our country”.

Mr Dutton conveyed the news during question time on Monday afternoon, saying he was waiting for “further details” about the incident, but said troops were engaged in “very dangerous” activities, even during training exercises.

“I just want to … Make the House aware there are media reports, I haven’t received confirmation as yet, but that tragically two soldiers are reported to have been died in a vehicle rollover near Townsville. I’m waiting for further details on that,” Mr Dutton said.

“Mr Speaker, that’s very sad news for our country to learn and our condolences and thoughts with their friends and family.”

The Courier Mail reported emergency services had attended to the rollover near Dotswoord, an hour southwest of Townsville, around 12:50pm. Two people were trapped inside the vehicle and were unconscious after the crash. Both died at the scene

Anthony Albanese also moved to express his condolences to the soldiers’ loved ones, describing the deaths as a “tragic loss” for the Australian Defence Force.

“This is a tragic loss for people wearing our uniform, serving our nation, and defending our people. And my thoughts and condolences are with their family and friends,” the Opposition Leader said.