The Malaysia Airlines flight MH17, a Boeing 777, was flying from Amsterdam to Kuala Lumpur when it disappeared from the radar and crashed near Torez in the region of Donetsk.
On board were 283 passengers and 15 crew – all believed to be killed instantly.
The Ukraine Government and pro-Russian separatists have both denied firing a missile at the plane.
Self-proclaimed Prime Minister of the pro-Russian separatist ‘Donetsk People’s Republic’ Alexander Borodai.
Prime Minister Tony Abbott said this morning that it was a “terrible tragedy” and would be an “unspeakable crime” if authorities proved the plane had been shot down.
“If it does turn out that this aircraft was brought down by a surface-to-air missile, there is no doubt this would be – under those circumstances – an unspeakable crime and the perpetrators should swiftly be brought to justice,” he said.
US vice president Joe Biden told the media that the plane “blown out of the sky” and it was “not an accident”.
The black box has been located. Foreign Minister Julie Bishop has urged separatists to co-operate with investigation and return it if it was taken.
Armed pro-Russian separatists stand at the #MH17 crash site. #Today9 pic.twitter.com/TrYbr2HO7M
If you have concerns for family or friends, the Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade (DFAT) urges you to contact them directly. If you are unable to, call the 24-hour Consular Emergency Centre on +61 2 6261 3305 from overseas, or within Australia on 1300 555 135.
