Media Release
Bali Explosions
Australian Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade, 13 October 2002
Late on 12 October, two explosions occurred in Bali, Indonesia – at the Sari
Nightclub and near the US Consulate General. Media reports have suggested that up
to 180 people have been killed with many more injured. Given the large number of
Australians in Bali, we hold grave concerns that many Australians may be among the
casualties.
At this time we can confirm that two Australians have lost their lives. Approximately
40 Australians have been injured, 15 seriously. A large number of Australians remain
missing.
Australia's Consulate-General in Bali mobilised quickly to respond to the situation and
is working hard to assist distressed Australians, particularly those who are seriously
injured. The Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade has established a crisis centre to
manage the Commonwealth’s response to these developments.
The Australian Defence Force is arranging for the evacuation of wounded Australians.
Two C130 Hercules aircraft with medical teams are now on their way to Denpasar in
Bali to assist victims.
Flights to Denpasar are continuing. Qantas has scheduled additional flights from this
afternoon.
A helpline has been set up by the Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade (from 6:30
am AEST) to assist persons to seek information concerning the safety or welfare of
Australians currently visiting or residing in Bali. The helpline number is 1800 002 214
for persons calling from Australia.
Australians visitors in Bali should consider advancing their departures on available
flights. In the meantime, they should stay in their hotels, avoid public places where
possible, and call home to advise families of their wellbeing. Australians are advised
to defer all travel to Bali until further notice.
Australians are also advised to defer all non-essential travel to other parts of
Indonesia. Australians in other parts of Indonesia should exercise a high level of
caution, defer all non-essential travel within Indonesia, and avoid public places where
possible.
Media inquiries: Lyndall Sachs (02-6261 1555)
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