On Boxing Day in 2004, a magnitude 9.2 earthquake would trigger the most fatal tsunami ever recorded, its impact stretched across Asia to the Maldives and to the coast of Africa. The Australian government would react to this catastrophe that killed 227 thousand people (which would include 26 Australian tourists) by providing aid and humanitarian assistance to various afflicted regions.
Stephen Hill asked the former head of Australia’s consular service Ian Kemish how much of a challenge it was responding to a natural disaster that crossed many national boundaries.
Ian Kemish AM is the author of The Consul: An insider’s account from Australia’s diplomatic frontlines
Image: Stock Photo ID: 2157431955 Phuket, Thailand – May 15, 2022: A Tsunami evacuation route sign is seen in Patong Beach road, southern Thailand. The sign is written in Thai, English and Chinese language.
Produced By: Stephen Hill
Featured In Story: Ian Kemish AM, former head of Australia’s consular service, Ambassador to Germany and High Commissioner to Papua New Guinea
First aired on The Wire, Thursday 9 January 2025