The Australian Government will provide an additional $4.35 million (US$2.86 million) to support the Government of Vanuatu’s response to Tropical Cyclones Judy and Kevin.
This includes $3.5 million (US$2.3 million) to partners in Vanuatu through the Australian Humanitarian Partnership and Australian Red Cross. This will support people currently in evacuation centres and provide essential items and services for affected communities.
The Australian Government will also provide additional logistics expertise to support the Government of Vanuatu’s coordination of further assessments, response and immediate recovery plans.
HMAS Canberra has arrived in Port Vila, with 600 Australian Defence Personnel, Chinook helicopters, medical facilities and humanitarian supplies, to support the Government of Vanuatu’s response.
Two Royal Australian Air Force aircraft are already in Vanuatu assisting with aerial surveillance and assessments.
Australia’s response is being delivered in close coordination with the Government of Vanuatu’s National Disaster Management Office, ensuring Australian support and supplies are delivered where they are needed most.
Foreign Affairs, Senator Penny Wong said:“This announcement and deployment builds on Australia’s longstanding disaster preparedness and humanitarian assistance activities in Vanuatu and across the region.
“In times of crisis, the Pacific family can rely on Australia to work with them.”
Minister for International Development and the Pacific, Pat Conroy said:“Our thoughts are with the people of Vanuatu as the devastating impact of the cyclones becomes clearer.”
“By coordinating closely with the Government of Vanuatu, and delivering support through respected agencies on the ground, this additional assistance will reach those in Vanuatu who need it the most.”.
SOURCE: DFAT/PACNEWS
