Australian Embassy
Indonesia

Australia Provides Relief Funds For Southern Java Tsunami

Archived Media Release

 21 July 2006

Australia Provides Relief Funds For Southern Java Tsunami

Australia’s Ambassador, Mr Bill Farmer, announced that Australia will provide $250,000 (Rp1.68 billion) for emergency relief and short to medium term assistance following the southern Java tsunami.

The funding comprises $200,000 (Rp1.34 billion) through international aid agencies and non-government organisations to restore water supply and sanitation services, re-equip schools, and re-establish livelihoods with a focus on fishing communities.

Mr Farmer said, “It is expected that in the short to medium term the tsunami will have a significant impact on people’s livelihoods, particularly in the small business and fishing industries. Australia’s assistance will speed the recovery process.”

A further $50,000 (Rp340 million) will be provided to the Indonesian Red Cross for emergency and relief supplies for affected communities.

“The Australian Foreign Minister Alexander Downer has written to the Indonesian Minister for Foreign Affairs, Dr Hassan Wirajuda, to express Australia’s condolences to the Indonesian Government and the families of the victims, and reiterated our ongoing readiness to assist the Indonesian people in their recovery efforts,” said Mr Farmer.

Further information:
Steven Barraclough (Counsellor Public Affairs) tel. 021 2550 5290 mob. 0811 194 144