Labor expresses its deep sadness at the death and destruction caused by two massive earthquakes which have struck Italy and Myanmar. Our thoughts are with the people of both countries, and especially with the many Australians of Italian descent who will be affected by this tragedy, and concerned at the fate of friends and relatives in the villages of Amatrice and Accumoli and surrounding areas. At least 120 people are now known to have died, hundreds more injured, and thousands of people left homeless by the destruction caused by the quake. Australia and Italy have extremely close ties, with around one million Australians claiming Italian ancestry, and hundreds of thousands visiting the country every year. While the death toll in Myanmar appears to be mercifully much smaller, many areas have suffered the destruction of pagodas and other historic buildings. Australians that need help, or are concerned about the safety of their loved ones, should call the Australian Government's 24 hour emergency consular helpline on 1300 555 135 (within Australia), +61 2 6261 3305 (outside Australia), +61 421 269 080 (by SMS).