ADF steps up involvement in virus help
The Australian Defence Force is expanding its support to the national coronavirus response.
Defence Minister Linda Reynolds says Operation COVID-19 ASSIST will comprise seven state-and-territory-based task groups which will coordinate support across the nation.
"The ADF is contributing to a national response to protect Australians and support state and territory capacity in a time of crisis," Senator Reynolds said in a statement on Wednesday.
"Under Operation COVID-19 ASSIST, Defence will provide customised support to state and territory authorities, to reinforce and expand their capacity to respond to the COVID-19 pandemic."
Around 570 ADF members are currently providing support, including contact tracing, planning assistance, and assisting police with mandatory quarantine arrangements for international air arrivals.
