Australian Defence Force Mobilises Relief and Reconstruction Effort for Sumatran Earthquake Victims

Australia continues to support Indonesian Government relief and reconstruction efforts following last Wednesday’s devastating earthquake through the deployment of Australian Defence Force (ADF) personnel and assets to assist. This follows the Indonesian Government’s acceptance of Australia’s offer of emergency assistance on 1 October.

This includes the deployment of:

ADF medical and health specialists providing a primary health care team and an environmental health team.
A ten-man military engineer reconnaissance team to assist the Indonesian Government assess civil infrastructure integrity.
Two C-130 aircraft, which continue to support the Indonesian and Australian aid effort by transporting personnel, emergency equipment and stores between Jakarta and Padang.
Other C130 and C17 aircraft are able to be deployed as needed to provide additional medical and other assistance to Indonesia.

As of 5 October, ADF aircraft had undertaken 6 flights to Padang.

“Australia is committed to working closely with Indonesian authorities to assist with relief and reconstruction efforts” said Charge D’Affaires Paul Robilliard. “I am pleased that Australian defence assets have been deployed quickly to assist with these vital tasks.”

This assistance is in addition to the A$2.8 million initial response package provided by Australia to Indonesia in the immediate aftermath of the disaster.

At this stage there are no Australians confirmed among those killed or injured. Australian Embassy officials continue strenuous efforts to confirm the welfare of other Australians who may have been in the area at the time.

Media Enquiries:
Toby Lendon, Manager (Public Affairs) tel. (021) 2550 5290 mob. 0811 187 3175