First Australian MH17 victims identified

Forensic experts have formally identified the first remains of Australian victims of the MH17 disaster.

Mary and Gerry Menke were among the 298 people killed when the Malaysia Airlines Boeing 777 was downed over insurgent-held eastern Ukraine on July 17.

The Menke family said in a statement today they were "relieved" that Mary and Gerry had been identified.

"We wish to thank all those who have helped in this process," the family said.

"We look forward to receiving Mary and Gerry again soon in the place and the community they loved so much and which loved them.

"Once again we extend our deepest condolences to all those affected by this tragedy."

Gerry and Mary Menke ran an abalone pearl company in Mallacoota, Victoria.

Mrs Menke also operated a hairdressing and beauty studio with her daughter.

It is understood they were on an overseas trip to celebrate a milestone birthday.

Dutch forensic experts have so far identified 127 victims.

Most of the identified victims have been Dutch but other nationalities have been publicly revealed, including from Malaysia, UK, New Zealand, Canada, Belgium and Germany.

It is Australian government policy to keep the nationality of formally identified Australian victims secret unless the family is happy for it to be published.

A total of 38 Australians were killed in the disaster.