The Australian Government's thoughts are with the families and friends of the two Australians reported as missing as a result of the tragic sinking of a livestock carrier yesterday.
"On behalf of the Australian Government, the Department of Agriculture, Water and Environment and the broader Australian farming family, I would like to express our shared concern for the welfare of the Australians and all the crew still missing following this terrible incident.
"I know just how distressing the news of the sinking of the Gulf Livestock 1 and the potential loss of life will be for the tight-knit livestock and veterinarian community, both in Queensland and across Australia.
"We also extend our thoughts to the families and nations of the 40 other crew members reported missing as they come to terms of yesterday's events.
"The livestock ship was carrying 43 crew as well as 5,800 dairy cattle from New Zealand to China when it capsized in rough seas off the Coast of Japan.
"We understand that the Japanese Coast Guard, who is rendering assistance, has located one crew member and we remain hopeful that more crew will be found.
"The incident underscores the risks that are sometimes involved in conducting our agricultural trade both domestically and internationally and that these risks extend far beyond the farmgate.
"I understand that Safe New Zealand is investigating this incident and I will be monitoring the outcomes of this investigation.
The Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade is providing consular assistance to the families of the two missing Australians.
