36 Australian soldiers injured in collision of 2 army vehicles

Thirty-six Australian Defense Force (ADF) personnel were injured in a collision between two army vehicles on the east coast of Australia on Saturday.

The incident took place in northern New South Wales when the personnel were assisting with flood relief efforts in the wake of Alfred, a recently downgraded tropical storm, according to Australian Broadcasting Corporation (ABC).

In a statement, Prime Minister Anthony Albanese called the collision “serious.”

“A number of ADF personnel have been injured, some seriously. Medical assistance is on hand. This is an ongoing incident,” the statement added.

Preliminary reports suggested that both trucks rolled, but the exact cause of the crash is still under investigation.

Three individuals were reported to be seriously injured, with the rest in various conditions.

The injured personnel were taken to the hospital.

“The welfare of ADF members and their families is a priority and Defense's focus is on supporting those involved,” said a statement from the ADF, adding that further updates will be provided when information is available.

New South Wales Premier Chris Minns also said he was “very concerned” and added: “NSW emergency services are currently responding, and we will provide all necessary support.”