Four military personnel missing after helicopter crashes in Australia

At least four people are missing after a military helicopter crashed off the coast of Queensland in Australia, media reports said on Saturday.  

At least four people are missing following a military helicopter crash off the coast of Queensland in Australia.

The incident took place when the aircraft was participating in a night-time training activity between the Australian and US military off Lindeman Island on Friday.

"Four crew were on board the aircraft at the time of the incident and are currently missing," read a statement issued by the Australian Defence website.

Military and civilian search and rescue aircraft and watercraft are currently conducting search and rescue operations at the incident site.

"At this time Defence’s priority is supporting our ADF members and their families. Families of affected personnel have been notified," read the statement.

The Chief of the Defence Force Angus Campbell said it was "a terrible moment".

"Our focus at the moment is with finding our people and supporting their families and the rest of our team," he said, quoted by the BBC.

Australian Defence Minister Richard Marles said a search and rescue mission was immediately launched.