Didn't say they didn't maybe you are misunderstaning. I am saying someone should pay for the costs associated with such. And if I am understanding the situation are they not asking for payment now?
The Australian government has made it quite clear it will not be asking for payment because that is not how the system works. As I’ve said.
This is a duty under the traditions of the sea and the laws of the sea. It is not appropriate to expect payment.
I have said in other threads that I believe it would be appropriate for the Sunderlands to make a donation to either the Australian Volunteer Coastguard, or the Société Nationale de Sauvetage en Mer, or some similar organisation. I would also certainly not object to the idea of them offering to reimburse some or all of the costs of the French fishing vessel. But it must not be expected. It must be their choice.
Sailors need to go to the aid of other sailors, whether expense is incurred or not. If that ever breaks down, it will cost life after life after life.