Two soldiers have been killed in an army vehicle crash near Townsville.

Police and paramedics were called to the scene on Dotswood Road just before 1pm, where it’s reported the vehicle rolled.

Veterans’ Affairs and Defence Personnel Minister Andrew Gee told Scott Emerson he understood families were being notified.

“I haven’t got further details and the families are just in the process of being notified, but obviously a very, very tragic incident just outside of Townsville at Dotswood.”

He said their “hearts and sincere condolences” go out to their loved ones over the shocking incident.

“We just want all of the families, friends and colleagues to know, our whole nation is shocked by this and very devastated.”

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Defence Minister Peter Dutton has told parliament he’s awaiting further detail.

“But of course we’ve significant personnel and assets around Lavarack Barracks,” he said.

“There are movements on the day, on the road every day, and it is a very dangerous task that our troops are involved in, even during training exercise and the movement of equipment up and down our national highways.

“That’s very sad news for our country to learn and our condolences and thoughts are with their friends and family, and we will have more to say on that during the day.”

I’m deeply saddened to hear that two soldiers have lost their lives today in a vehicle crash near Townsville.

It’s tragic when anyone who serves our country loses their life.

My heart goes out to their family, friends and the tight-knit Townsville community.

— Senator Nita Green (@nitagreenqld) August 30, 2021

Opposition leader Anthony Albanese said it was a “tragic loss for people wearing our uniform, serving our nation and defending our people”.

Image: Getty