Aussie troops to deploy with US if needed

Australia says that 295 troops stationed in the US have been given permission to deploy with American forces if needed.

Defence Minister Peter Reith said Australian Defence Force personnel on exchanges or in liaison positions in the United States had already provided support to the US military in air patrols and support roles and would continue to do so.

Foreign Affairs Minister Alexander Downer said the number of Australians believed killed in the attacks had risen to 23, with 32 still missing.