NEWS

Thousands feared dead as powerful earthquake and tsunami hits Indonesia

The confirmed death toll from the earthquake and tsunami that struck the Indonesian island of Sulawesi is 832 and rising rapidly.

At least 832 people are dead after a powerful earthquake and tsunami hit Indonesia.

Authorities fear that number will rise as rescuers struggle to get aid and support to outlying communities.

Amongst the area hardest hit was the city of Palu, on Sulawesi island, where dozens of people are reported to be trapped in the rubble of several hotels and a mall after it was hit by waves as high as six metres following the 7.5-magnitude earthquake on Friday.

No Australians are known to have been affected by the disaster.

Opposition Leader Bill Shorten said Labor will offer what support is needed to help aid recovery.

“Labor stands with the government in offering whatever support is needed to help the people of Indonesia recover from this tragedy,” he said.

“Australia should consider all available options to help in the immediate aftermath of this tragedy, as well as longer term assistance to support the people of Sulawesi to rebuild their homes and infrastructure.”

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