Government Supports Victims of London Bombings

Australian survivors and family members of the victims of the 7 July 2005 London Bombings will be able to attend the first anniversary commemorations under an assistance package delivered by the Australian Government.

The Minister for Community Services, John Cobb, today announced the package, which will help eligible people meet the travel and accommodation costs associated with returning to London.

‘Given the nature of the tragedy and the Australian Government’s desire to support survivors and the families of victims, an assistance package has been developed,’
Mr Cobb said.

For eligible claimants, this package includes:

• return economy airfare to London, and direct connecting domestic flight(s);
• up to a maximum $5000 per person for accommodation and related costs for a trip of up to 10 nights; and/or
• travel insurance and passport costs.

‘For many people, returning to London for the commemorations will be an important part of their healing process. By providing this package, the Government is removing financial pressures enabling survivors and family members of the victims to be present at the anniversary service.

‘This package is part the Australian Government’s ongoing commitment to providing support and assistance to Australians involved in terrorist attacks and their families,’
Mr Cobb said.

On 7 July 2005 a series of explosions across tube trains and buses in Central London resulted in a number of fatalities and many hundred injured. On 10 July 2005 the British Government confirmed there were 49 dead and over 700 injured. One Australian died as a result of the explosions and 11 Australians were injured.