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Nepal Floods: Perth Man Among Missing Australians in Crisis

Published by YuToday Staff

0 views · 4 hours ago · 4:09 read · September 2, 2026

A West Australian man, Luke Costanzo, is among dozens of Australians reported missing in Nepal after catastrophic flooding struck the region last week. The floods, described as one of the worst natural disasters in recent years, have left search and rescue teams scrambling to locate survivors and recover victims. Costanzo, a Perth resident, was last seen in the affected area, and his family has appealed for information as authorities intensify efforts to determine his status.

Key takeaways

Luke Costanzo, a Perth man, is among dozens of Australians missing in Nepal after catastrophic flooding.
At least a dozen Australians remain unaccounted for, with search efforts complicated by landslides and damaged infrastructure.
The Australian government will not facilitate the return of citizens from Nepal but is providing consular support.
Rescue teams face severe challenges due to ongoing weather risks and limited access to remote areas.

Who is Luke Costanzo and what happened?

Luke Costanzo, a Perth-born man, is among the Australians reported missing in Nepal following catastrophic flooding that devastated the region last week. While specific details about his last known location remain unconfirmed, reports indicate he was in an area heavily impacted by the disaster. The floods, which have been described as one of the worst natural disasters in recent years, have left entire communities isolated and rescue efforts complicated by ongoing landslides and infrastructure damage. Costanzo’s family has publicly appealed for information, urging anyone with knowledge of his whereabouts to come forward. Authorities have not yet confirmed whether he is among the deceased or still missing, as search operations continue under difficult conditions.

How many Australians are affected by the Nepal floods?

At least a dozen Australians are among the thousands reported missing or displaced in Nepal following the catastrophic floods. The exact number of affected individuals remains unconfirmed, as officials work to verify the identities of those unaccounted for. The disaster has drawn international attention, with governments including Australia’s coordinating consular assistance for citizens in the region. While some Australians have been confirmed safe, others remain uncontactable, leaving families in limbo. The scale of the crisis has overwhelmed local resources, prompting calls for global humanitarian support to aid in rescue and recovery efforts.

What is the Australian government’s response?

The Australian government has stated it will not provide assistance to facilitate the return of Australians currently in Nepal, including those affected by the floods. Home Affairs Minister Tony Burke’s office confirmed the stance, emphasizing the government’s focus on consular support rather than logistical aid for repatriation. This decision follows similar policies in past international crises where Australians faced travel restrictions or legal consequences abroad. Meanwhile, the government continues to monitor the situation closely, with officials working to gather information on the whereabouts of missing citizens. The lack of direct assistance has drawn criticism from some families, who argue that more support is needed during such emergencies.

What challenges are rescuers facing in Nepal?

Rescue and recovery efforts in Nepal are being hampered by severe weather, landslides, and damaged infrastructure, which have isolated entire communities. The catastrophic flooding has destroyed roads, bridges, and communication networks, making it difficult for search teams to access remote areas. Heavy rainfall continues to pose risks, with fears of further landslides and flooding. Local authorities, supported by international aid organizations, are prioritizing the rescue of survivors and the delivery of essential supplies such as food, water, and medical aid. The scale of the disaster has stretched resources thin, with calls for increased global assistance to address the humanitarian crisis.

How can families stay informed about missing loved ones?

Families of missing Australians in Nepal are advised to monitor official updates from the Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade (DFAT) and local authorities. DFAT has established a dedicated crisis page for the disaster, providing guidance on how to register as a concerned family member and access consular support. Social media platforms and community groups have also become hubs for sharing information and coordinating efforts. While unverified reports may circulate, families are urged to rely on verified sources to avoid misinformation. The Australian government has reiterated its commitment to providing updates as more information becomes available.

What happens next

As search and rescue efforts continue in Nepal, authorities are expected to provide further updates on the status of missing Australians, including Luke Costanzo. The international community is likely to ramp up humanitarian aid to support recovery efforts, while the Australian government will continue to monitor the situation and provide consular assistance to affected families. The scale of the disaster may also prompt discussions on improving crisis response protocols for future international emergencies.