Initial Australian Assistance for Indonesia Totals A$2.8 Million So Far

A team of Australian personnel are working strenuously on the ground in Padang to assist with the rescue effort and for consular purposes.

On Friday 2 October Australia sent a 48-member team to assist with the Indonesian response to the earthquake. An Australian Defence Force (ADF) C-130 transported an ADF Engineer Reconnaissance Team, an ADF Health Survey Team and an Urban Search and Rescue Team to Padang to help with an initial assessment of the local situation and provide support and assistance to Indonesia and any Australians affected by the disaster.

Also on 2 October, an ADF C-17 transported relief equipment and a 33-member Queensland Urban Search and Rescue team to the area to work with local authorities to do search and rescue on collapsed structures. AusAID have used two chartered 737 aircrafts to transport a consignment of family kits, 50 family-sized tents and personnel to Padang.

HMAS Kanimbla set sail from Sydney today carrying additional relief supplies to Indonesia.

“Australia is working closely with the Government of Indonesia to provide assistance to relieve the suffering of the people of Padang,” Australian Charge to Indonesia, Paul Robilliard said.

Australia’s initial response package to Indonesia totals A$2.8 million with an additional option of a further A$1 million under consideration by Indonesia. Australia stands ready to offer further assistance in the coming days as required.

There are still no reports of any Australians among the casualties or injured. All 13 Australians registered as being in Padang at the time of the earthquake have been accounted for. Urgent efforts are being made to contact Australians who may be in the affected area.

Media Enquiries:
Sonya Neufeld, AusAID Public Affairs (021) 2550 5609 / 0811 187 2365
Bram Marolop, AusAID Public Affairs (021) 2550-5386 / 0811 190 4823