Earthquakes in Japan

Our thoughts are with the Japanese people as they confront the aftermath of the earthquakes that struck the Kumamoto region of Kyushu island on Thursday and Saturday.

The Australian Government stands ready to provide any assistance that our Japanese friends may require in responding to the disaster.

Australians have been watching the unfolding situation with deep concern. These were the most severe earthquakes to strike Japan since the Great East Japan Earthquake of March 2011. The disaster has caused substantial loss of life and damage to property, infrastructure and essential services in Kumamoto and surrounding areas.

While Japan is one of the most earthquake-prone countries in the world, it is also one of the best prepared, and Japanese authorities have moved quickly to mobilise resources to the affected area.

There are currently 3506 Australians registered as travelling in Japan. DFAT officials have confirmed the safety of a number of Australians who were in the Kumamoto region during the earthquakes and are in ongoing contact with local authorities to determine if any Australians have been affected. At this point, there are no reports of Australians being injured or killed.

Any Australians intending to remain in or visit the region should heed the advice of local authorities and keep informed of local conditions. Australians travelling in Japan should also ensure they are registered on smartraveller.gov.au and monitor travel advice for the region.

I urge Australians concerned for the welfare of family and friends in Japan to attempt to contact them directly. If unable to do so, they should call the Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade's 24-hour Consular Emergency Centre on1300 555 135 or, if overseas, on +61 2 6261 3305.