Good news for hundreds of stranded Aussies

Australians bunkering down in riot-stricken New Caledonia will fly home on a French repatriation flight on Wednesday, as the government races to get the rest of the group to safety.

A group of 108 people, including 20 Canadians, arrived in Brisbane on two Australian Defence Force flights on Tuesday night.

About 200 Australians remain stuck in and around the capital of Noumea after protests erupted last Monday.

Foreign Affairs Minister Penny Wong confirmed on Wednesday morning Australians waiting to depart the French territory would be flown home, thanks to French authorities.

“We will continue to work with partners to support the departure of all Australians who want to leave,” Senator Wong said.

“Australian officials remain in contact with registered Australians.”

It’s understood the flight will land in Brisbane, and more flights will be organised in the coming days.

The Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade told the remaining Australians the flights could come at short notice, and they should be ready to leave.

“The Australian Government also stands ready to assist with further flights should French authorities grant approval,” the department told the travellers.

The government’s evacuation plan was the result of the island country’s international airport being closed and roads being blockaded by authorities as the riots continue.

At least six people have died since the rioting began last week, in response to reforms passed in Paris that would allow recent arrivals to the French overseas territory to vote in local provincial; elections.

Some local leaders feared the move would weaken the voice of the indigenous Kanak people, which accounts for about 40 per cent of the country’s population.

Foreign Affairs Minister Penny Wong said the government stood “ready to assist” French authorities as evacuation efforts continued.

“(Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade) is contacting registered Australians,” SenatorWong said on X.

“Passengers are being prioritised based on need.

“We continue to work on further flights.”

There are 300 Australians currently registered with the DFAT who want to leave the island, located about 1200km off Australia’s east coast.

It’s understood Qantas will provide connections to returning citizens not based in Brisbane.

Any Australians in New Caledonia who wish to be evacuated and haven’t already registered should contact DFAT’s crisis centre.

Prime Minister Anthony Albanese said the flights were an important step and ensuring Australians were safe amid the violent riots.

“The wellbeing of Australians in New Caledonia is a priority,” Mr Albanese said on X.

The uncertainty on the island was sparked after pro-independence groups rebelled against potential reform which would allow people who’ve lived on the island for more than 10 years to vote in local elections.