Australia / Oceania

Australian Military Reservists To Assist With Bushfires

The prime minister says 3,000 army, navy and air force reservists will join firefighters currently battling the blazes.

Australian Military Reservists To Assist With Bushfires
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For the first time ever, Australia will send Australian Defence Force reservists to assist with the country's bush fire crisis.

Prime Minister Scott Morrison announced 3,000 army, navy and air force reservists will join firefighters currently battling more than 100 fires.

Defence Minister Linda Reynolds says the reservists will bring supplies to isolated communities, help with evacuations, and help clear and reopen main roads.

Morrison also pledged $14 million to lease multiple firefighting aircraft from another country.

Morrison has faced intense criticism for taking a family vacation in the midst of the crisis.

Some Australians say Morrison's response is still not enough.

"Get out, get out, you cannot lead this country. You are hopeless. You are a moron. Get out. That's my message to ScoMo: Go!"

"You, from the media. ... Tell the prime minister to go and get f----- from Nelligan. We really enjoy doing this s---."

The fires, which have been burning for months now, have scorched over 12.3 million acres and killed at least 24 people.

Additional reporting from Newsy affiliate CNN