Prime Minister Anthony Albanese’s says Australians’ “worst fears” have been confirmed after the announcement of the deaths of four servicemen in a Taipan helicopter crash off Queensland on the weekend.

“They dedicated their lives to keeping us safe. They were soldiers, sons, husbands, brothers, fathers and friends. Today, our deepest sympathies are with the people who love them and the people that they love,” Albanese told question time.

He said a formal condolence motion would be held at an appropriate time. “We are also thinking of all those who served alongside these four men who remain missing,” he said.

The four are Warrant Officer Class 2 Joseph “Phil” Laycock, Troop Commander Captain Daniel Lyon, Lieutenant Maxwell Nugent and Corporal Alexander Nagg.

“This incident has reminded us that there are no safe or easy days for those who serve in our country’s name,” Albanese said.

“All Australians owe a debt to the brave men and women who wear a uniform, citizens who risk their lives in order to protect our way of life.

“On behalf of our nation we offer our sympathies and condolences to the families, friends and colleagues of those who Australia has lost. We mourn them, we will remember them, lest we forget.”