Australian emergency personnel thanked for their efforts in New Zealand and Japan

On Tuesday 24 May, Australian Prime Minister Julia Gillard hosted a reception at Parliament House to thank the Australian rescuers, medical experts, police and Australian Defence Force personnel involved in the emergency responses to the Christchurch earthquake and the Japanese earthquake and tsunami.  The recpetion was also attended by New Zealand High Commissioner Mr Martyn Dunne.

Attorney-General Robert McClelland and Minister for Foreign Affairs Kevin Rudd joined the Prime Minster and High Commissioner at the reception, which was also attended by around 80 representatives of emergency services agencies from around Australia.

The New Zealand High Commission would like to again warmly thank the Australian Government, the Urban Search and Rescue Teams, medical experts, police and Defence personnel and all Australians who have supported New Zealand following this tragedy.

Prime Minister Gillard's media release can be found at the Prime Minister's website.