The Australian Government utterly condemns the attack overnight against worshippers leaving a Christian church after a New Year's mass in the northern Egyptian city of Alexandria, reportedly killing and wounding dozens of people.
We deplore the loss of innocent lives during what should have been a joyful time, and extend our deepest sympathies to all those affected by this tragedy.
The Government calls for all those responsible for this heinous crime to be swiftly brought to justice.
The Australian Embassy in Cairo is in contact with Egyptian authorities in relation to any possible Australians affected in the attack. At this stage there are no reports of any Australian casualties.