C-17 to ferry Australians home from Nepal

Australians picked up by two military planes in Nepal and taken to Bangkok continue their journey home, as more aid dollars are pledged.

Australians who have been stranded in earthquake-ravaged Nepal are being flown home as the federal government donates another $5 million in humanitarian assistance.

Two Australian military planes landed in Kathmandu overnight, unloading 15 tonnes in aid - including much needed shelter - before welcoming 106 Australian and other foreign nationals on board for a flight to Bangkok.

Some of the 66 Australians will find their own way back from the Thai capital on commercial flights, but one C-17 will ferry those who wish to return home.

The other aircraft will remain, in case further evacuation shuttle flights are needed.

Canada offered to fly Australians from Kathmandu to New Delhi on Friday, while Cover More insurance is chartering a flight for its policy holders at 9pm (local time).

Foreign Minister Julie Bishop revealed on Friday all 1450 Australians known to be in Nepal have been accounted for, noting the "extraordinary work" of consular staff in locating them.

Australia's contribution to relief efforts now stands at $10 million.

The latest funds will go towards the UN Flash Appeal, the Australian Red Cross and other non-government organisations taking part in relief efforts.

Ms Bishop urged Australians still in Nepal to check their travel insurance, while discouraging others from thinking of making the journey.

While the Australian government would do what it could there are limitations to what it can do.

"These are exceedingly challenging and difficult circumstances in a very dangerous place," Ms Bishop told reporters in Perth.

She hoped Australians who had been in Nepal would have made contingency plans in case of a disaster.

"If they didn't, they obviously should have thought about what would happen if there were an avalanche on Mount Everest or something like that."


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Source: AAP


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