WA Premier Colin Barnett confirmed today that seven West Australians were among the 295 people killed on board Malaysia Airlines flight MH17 which was shot down.
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Mr Barnett released a statement just before noon saying he was "horrified and deeply shocked" by the crash in the Ukraine overnight.
"I have been informed that seven West Australians are among the 27 Australians confirmed dead," Mr Barnett said.
"At this stage reports do seem to indicate that the plane was shot down by terrorists and, if so, this is a truly unspeakable and incomprehensible act.
"On behalf of all West Australians, I wish to express my deepest sympathy to the families of all the victims and, in particular, the West Australian families involved."
Mr Barnett said the Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade (DFAT) were notifying the families of the victims and were being assisted by the West Australian Police.
He said people who have been affected by the tragedy can call the Department for Child Protection and Family Support on 1800 032 965 to access emotional and practical assistance.
"The phone line can put people in touch with specialised services to meet individual needs," he said.
Perth man Nick Norris and his three grandchildren, aged 8, 10 and 12 were among the seven West Australians killed.
