Today marks 500 days of courage and heroism by Ukraine to defend their sovereignty in the face of the illegal and immoral invasion launched by Russia.
The people of Ukraine have demonstrated immeasurable strength and bravery to protect their home, their culture and their people.
It is also a day to reflect on the grief we share with Ukraine for the fatalities and casualties caused by Russia’s brutal actions. The toll stands at more than 9,083 civilian deaths, and more than 15,779 injuries.
The latest Australian support package, announced last month, falls a long way short of Ukraine’s requests for additional military capability including Bushmasters, Hawkeis, Abrams tanks and de-mining equipment.
Labor’s humanitarian commitment of $10 million to Ukraine is also a long way short of the $65 million provided in Australia’s initial response package delivered by the Morrison government.
We again offer our bipartisan support for additional Australian military, humanitarian, financial and energy support for Ukraine, and again call on the Albanese Government to reinstate the Australian embassy and Australian Ambassador in Kyiv, alongside the at least 67 diplomatic missions which have already returned.
Helping to defend Ukraine is a principle of defending the international rules and norms that respect the sovereignty of nations, including recognised borders.
Australia stands in solidarity with Ukraine and the Opposition continues to provide bipartisan support for the Albanese Government to act swiftly and provide more support on the ground as quickly as possible.
Australia must not fatigue in our efforts to continue support for Ukraine and remain at one with our international partners.
We stand with Ukrainians in their resistance of this invasion and in the rebuilding that we hope is soon to follow.